GA-Hecate antiviral properties on HCV whole cycle represent a new antiviral class and open the door for the development of broad spectrum antivirals

Sci Rep. 2018 Sep 25;8(1):14329. doi: 10.1038/s41598-018-32176-w.

Abstract

In recent years, synthetic peptides have been considered promising targets for drug development that possess low side-effects, are cost-effective and are susceptible to rational design. Hecate was initially described as a potent bacterial inhibitor and subsequently as an anticancer drug with functions related to its lipid interaction property. Viruses, such as hepatitis C virus (HCV), have a lipid-dependent life cycle and could be affected by Hecate in many ways. Here, we assessed modifications on Hecate's N-terminus region and its effects on HCV and hepatotoxicity. Gallic acid-conjugated Hecate was the most efficient Hecate-derivative, presenting high potential as an antiviral and inhibiting between 50 to 99% of all major steps within the HCV infectious cycle. However, the most promising aspect was GA-Hecate's mechanism of action, which was associated with a balanced lipid interaction with the viral envelope and lipid droplets, as well as dsRNA intercalation, allowing for the possibility to affect other ssRNA viruses and those with a lipid-dependent cycle.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Amino Acid Sequence
  • Antiviral Agents / chemistry*
  • Antiviral Agents / pharmacology*
  • Antiviral Agents / toxicity
  • Cell Line, Tumor
  • Cell Survival / drug effects
  • Gallic Acid / chemistry*
  • Hepacivirus / drug effects*
  • Hepacivirus / physiology
  • Hepatocytes / cytology
  • Hepatocytes / drug effects
  • Humans
  • Melitten / chemistry*
  • Melitten / pharmacology*
  • Melitten / toxicity
  • Virus Replication / drug effects

Substances

  • Antiviral Agents
  • Melitten
  • Gallic Acid