Role of G2-S16 Polyanionic Carbosilane Dendrimer in the Prevention of Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection In Vitro and In Vivo in Mice

Abstract

The respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) causes respiratory infection and bronchiolitis, requiring hospitalization mainly in infants. The interaction between RSV, envelope glycoproteins G and F, and cell surface heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPG) is required for binding and entry into the host cells. A G2-S16 polyanionic carbosilane dendrimer was identified as a possible RSV inhibitor. We speculated that the G2-S16 dendrimer adheres to the host cell-surface HSPG, acts through binding to HS receptors, and prevents further RSV infection. The G2-S16 dendrimer was non-toxic when applied intranasally to Balb/c mice, and interestingly enough, this G2-S16 dendrimer inhibits 85% RSV. Therefore, our G2-S16 dendrimer could be a candidate for developing a new possible therapy against RSV infection.

Resveratrol inhibits respiratory syncytial virus replication by targeting heparan sulfate proteoglycans

“…21 The G2-S16 dendrimer has demonstrated its ability to adhere to host cell surface HSPGs, binding to HS receptors and preventing further RSV infection both in vivo and in vitro . 28 Furthermore, CXCL4 has been identified as a potent inhibitor, blocking viral attachment by binding to the RSV main receptor, HSPG, rather than interacting with RSV surface proteins. CXCL4 has proven to be an RSV restriction factor capable of blocking viral entry in both in vivo and in vitro settings.…”

“…18,[25][26][27] Additionally, some researchers have designed molecules that bind to HSPGs, thereby blocking the virus from attaching to HSPGs and preventing further RSV infection. 21,28 Given the broad-spectrum antiviral properties of resveratrol and the significance of HSPGs in this context, it is hypothesized that resveratrol may inhibit RSV infection by modulating HSPGs. Therefore, the primary objective of this study is to assess the antiviral effects of resveratrol against RSV infection and shed light on the underlying mechanism.…”

“…18,25–27 Additionally, some researchers have designed molecules that bind to HSPGs, thereby blocking the virus from attaching to HSPGs and preventing further RSV infection. 21,28…”

Enhanced Immunomodulatory Effects of Thymosin-Alpha-1 in Combination with Polyanionic Carbosilane Dendrimers against HCMV Infection

“…The limitations of traditional antiviral therapies against HCMV infection have led to the development of novel treatments, including genetic, cellular and immune therapies [20]. Among these alternatives, dendrimers have demonstrated efficacy against different pathogens, including HCMV [21][22][23]. Our study highlights the combined immune effect of PCDs G2-S16 and G2-S24P with the immunomodulatory capacity of Tα1, showing their ability to enhance the functionality of DCs as antigen-presenting cells (APCs) and subsequently boost the activation of T cells, including Treg, promoting an adaptive response against HCMV infection.…”