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Grape seed extract for control of human enteric viruses
1Department of Food Science and Technology, University of Tennessee-Knoxville, Knoxville, TN 37996-4591, USA.
Applied and Environmental Microbiology
|April 19, 2011
Summary
Grape seed extract (GSE) effectively reduces human enteric viruses like norovirus and hepatitis A virus. This natural compound shows promise for improving food safety by decreasing viral contamination.
Area of Science:
- Food Science
- Microbiology
- Virology
Background:
- Grape seed extract (GSE) possesses known pharmacological benefits, including antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.
- The impact of GSE on human enteric viruses, crucial for food safety, remains under-documented.
- Phenolic compounds in GSE are investigated for their potential antiviral activities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of commercial GSE (Gravinol-S) in reducing the infectivity of human enteric viruses.
- To assess the dose-dependent and temperature-dependent effects of GSE on viral inactivation.
- To determine the potential of GSE as a natural agent for food safety applications.
Main Methods:
- Commercial GSE was tested against feline calicivirus (FCV-F9), murine norovirus (MNV-1), bacteriophage MS2, and hepatitis A virus (HAV).
- Viruses were treated with varying concentrations of GSE (0.25-1 mg/ml) at room temperature and 37°C for 2 hours.
- Viral infectivity was quantified using standardized plaque assays after treatment.
Main Results:
- GSE significantly reduced the infectivity of all tested viruses in a dose-dependent manner at 37°C.
- Higher GSE concentrations led to greater viral reductions, particularly for FCV-F9 and HAV.
- GSE demonstrated significant antiviral activity at room temperature, with notable reductions in low-titer viruses.
Conclusions:
- Grape seed extract exhibits significant antiviral properties against human enteric viruses.
- GSE is a promising, inexpensive, natural alternative for reducing viral contamination in the food industry.
- The findings support the application of GSE for enhancing food safety and preventing viral outbreaks.
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