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Tannic acid modulates SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis by curbing key host receptors and oxidative stress
Akshaya Rani Augustus1, Yashwanth Radhakrishnan2, James Prabhanand Bhaskar2
1Department of Biotechnology, Alagappa University, Karaikudi 630 003, Tamil Nadu, India.
Abstract:
The novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, which wrecked havoc around the world in the recent years through COVID-19, gains entry into the host cell through various receptors. Development of therapies targeting host-pathogen interaction will be a key to curb the infection as it potentially suppresses viral attachment and entry into the host. Boundless bioactives abundant in natural resources are the important source of new as well as safer alternatives. Tannic acid, a polyphenolic compound found abundantly in various plant sources, has gained much attention owing to its multifaceted pharmacological properties. This research paper presents a comprehensive investigation on antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-viral abilities of tannic acid, substantiated through a triad of methodologies: in silico, in vitro and in vivo approaches. In vitro experiments, confirmed the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory efficacy as well as the host receptor modulating potential of tannic acid. In silico docking analyses elucidated the molecular interactions between tannic acid and key host receptors involved in inflammation and viral pathogenesis. Furthermore, the in vivo studies involving Danio rerio provided a holistic understanding of the systemic impact of tannic acid, including its antioxidant effects by mitigating the oxidative stress.
Insights
Tannic acid, a natural compound, shows promise in combating SARS-CoV-2 by inhibiting viral entry and reducing inflammation. Studies confirm its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral potential against COVID-19.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Pharmacology
- Virology
Background:
- SARS-CoV-2 causes COVID-19, necessitating novel therapeutic strategies targeting host-pathogen interactions.
- Natural bioactives offer potential for developing safer alternatives to combat viral infections.
- Tannic acid, a plant-derived polyphenol, exhibits diverse pharmacological properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To comprehensively investigate the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral potential of tannic acid against SARS-CoV-2.
- To evaluate tannic acid's ability to modulate host cell receptors involved in viral entry.
- To assess the systemic effects and antioxidant capacity of tannic acid in vivo.
Main Methods:
- In vitro assays to determine antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and host receptor modulating activities.
- In silico molecular docking to analyze interactions between tannic acid and key viral/inflammatory targets.
- In vivo studies using Danio rerio to evaluate systemic antioxidant effects and oxidative stress mitigation.
Main Results:
- In vitro experiments confirmed tannic acid's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory efficacy.
- Tannic acid demonstrated potential in modulating host receptors crucial for SARS-CoV-2 entry.
- In silico analysis revealed specific molecular interactions supporting its therapeutic potential.
- In vivo studies validated tannic acid's antioxidant effects in mitigating oxidative stress.
Conclusions:
- Tannic acid possesses significant antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties relevant to COVID-19.
- Its ability to interfere with host-pathogen interactions makes it a promising candidate for therapeutic development.
- Further research into tannic acid could lead to natural-based strategies against SARS-CoV-2.
