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Visualization of SARS-CoV-2 using Immuno RNA-Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization
05:23

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Linoleic acid binds to SARS-CoV-2 RdRp and represses replication of seasonal human coronavirus OC43

Anna Goc1, Waldemar Sumera2, Matthias Rath2

  • 1Dr. Rath Research Institute, 5941 Optical Ct., San Jose, CA, 95138, USA. a.goc@drrath.com.

Scientific Reports
|November 9, 2022
PubMed

Insights

Linoleic acid shows significant potential in inhibiting human coronavirus replication by interacting with the SARS-CoV-2 RNA-dependent RNA polymerase. This fatty acid also exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, suggesting its therapeutic value.

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Virology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Fatty acids are known for broad antiviral activity.
  • The effect of fatty acids on human coronavirus replication remains largely unexplored.
  • Human coronaviruses pose a significant public health threat.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the antiviral properties of fatty acids against human coronaviruses.
  • To identify specific fatty acids that inhibit SARS-CoV-2 RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp).
  • To elucidate the mechanism of action for effective fatty acids.

Main Methods:

  • Screening of 15 fatty acids, 3 lipid-soluble vitamins, and cholesterol for SARS-CoV-2 RdRp inhibition.
  • Molecular interaction analysis of linoleic acid with SARS-CoV-2 RdRp.
  • In vitro assessment of HCoV-OC43 replication inhibition.
  • In vivo study to confirm antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects.

Main Results:

  • Four fatty acids demonstrated significant RdRp inhibitory potential.
  • Linoleic acid exhibited the strongest interaction with SARS-CoV-2 RdRp, binding within a specific cavity.
  • Linoleic acid formed hydrophobic and electrostatic interactions with viral RdRp residues.
  • Dose-dependent inhibition of HCoV-OC43 replication was observed in vitro.
  • In vivo studies confirmed the antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects of linoleic acid.

Conclusions:

  • Fatty acids possess antiviral properties against human coronaviruses, including SARS-CoV-2.
  • Linoleic acid demonstrates promising RdRp-inhibitory activity and warrants further investigation as a potential antiviral therapeutic.
  • The study provides new insights into the mechanism of fatty acid antiviral action.

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