Atovaquone and Berberine Chloride Reduce SARS-CoV-2 Replication In Vitro

Abstract

Epidemic RNA viruses seem to arise year after year leading to countless infections and devastating disease. SARS-CoV-2 is the most recent of these viruses, but there will undoubtedly be more to come. While effective SARS-CoV-2 vaccines are being deployed, one approach that is still missing is effective antivirals that can be used at the onset of infections and therefore prevent pandemics. Here, we screened FDA-approved compounds against SARS-CoV-2. We found that atovaquone, a pyrimidine biosynthesis inhibitor, is able to reduce SARS-CoV-2 infection in human lung cells. In addition, we found that berberine chloride, a plant-based compound used in holistic medicine, was able to inhibit SARS-CoV-2 infection in cells through direct interaction with the virion. Taken together, these studies highlight potential avenues of antiviral development to block emerging viruses. Such proactive approaches, conducted well before the next pandemic, will be essential to have drugs ready for when the next emerging virus hits.

Immunomodulatory effects of Abelmoschus esculentus water extract through MAPK and NF-κB signaling in RAW 264.7 cells

“…As well as the development of inhibitors to slow viral replication, such as 3C-like proteases, papain-like protease, and angiotensin-converting enzyme II, immunosuppressive treatments may be useful in preventing the cytokine storm in the later stages of COVID-19, a major cause of patient death. 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 In this study, we focused on identifying potential prophylaxes for SARS-CoV-2 infection, specifically an immune-enhancing compound derived from natural products. Immune-enhancing compounds are generally classified as those capable of enhancing the non-specific immune system response by promoting the activity of phagocytes such as neutrophils and macrophages.…”

A Review of Fibraurea tinctoria and Its Component, Berberine, as an Antidiabetic and Antioxidant

“…Several studies reported that berberine has many pharmacological activities, including antihyperlipidemic, antidiabetic, antiobesity, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, neuroprotective, cardioprotective, immunomodulatory, and other effects [ 52 , 53 , 54 , 55 ]. Recently, many studies have been conducted to examine the role of berberine in COVID-19 [ 56 , 57 , 58 , 59 ] ( Figure 1 ).…”

Antiparasitic Drugs against SARS-CoV-2: A Comprehensive Literature Survey

“…Moreover, subsequent in vitro tests have showed a strong inhibition of the replication of different SARS-CoV-2 variants (alpha, beta and delta) in Vero E6 and Calu-3 cells [ 149 ]. Additionally, atovaquone was able to significantly reduced virus replication and infection in human lung cells, Vero cells and human hepatocytes [ 150 , 151 ]. However, concerning atovaquone’s ability to reduce virus production in airway epithelium cultures, inconsistent results have been obtained [ 149 , 150 ].…”

“…Additionally, atovaquone was able to significantly reduced virus replication and infection in human lung cells, Vero cells and human hepatocytes [ 150 , 151 ]. However, concerning atovaquone’s ability to reduce virus production in airway epithelium cultures, inconsistent results have been obtained [ 149 , 150 ].…”