Honokiol and Alpha-Mangostin Inhibit Mayaro Virus Replication through Different Mechanisms

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Natural Product Chemistry
• Immunology

Background:

• Mayaro virus (MAYV) is an emerging arbovirus spreading in the Americas.
• There is a need for effective antiviral treatments against MAYV and other arboviruses.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the antiviral potential of six natural compounds against MAYV and other arboviruses.
• To identify compounds with significant antiviral activity and low cytotoxicity.

Main Methods:

• Assessed cytotoxicity of Sanguinarine, (R)-Shikonin, Fisetin, Honokiol, Tanshinone IIA, and α-Mangostin.
• Evaluated the efficacy of promising compounds against MAYV and other arboviruses in cell lines.
• Analyzed viral RNA replication, viral titers, protein expression, and host interferon response.

Main Results:

• Honokiol and α-Mangostin demonstrated significant antiviral activity against MAYV and other arboviruses (Una, Chikungunya, Zika) with low cytotoxicity.
• These compounds reduced viral RNA replication, viral progeny yields, and key viral protein expression.
• Treatment upregulated type I interferon and interferon-stimulated genes, suggesting an enhanced antiviral cellular state.

Conclusions:

• Honokiol and α-Mangostin exhibit promising broad-spectrum antiviral properties against arboviruses.
• These natural compounds may represent novel therapeutic agents for arboviral infections.
• Further research into their mechanisms of action and in vivo efficacy is warranted.