Icarisid Ⅱ modulates mitochondrial dynamics for anti-HBV activity

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Virology
• Cell Biology

Background:

• Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection remains a significant global health concern.
• Current treatments for HBV have limitations, necessitating the exploration of novel therapeutic agents.
• Mitochondrial dynamics are increasingly recognized as crucial in viral pathogenesis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the anti-HBV activity of Icariside II (ICS II).
• To investigate the underlying mechanisms of ICS II's action, focusing on mitochondrial dynamics.

Main Methods:

• In vivo and in vitro assays were performed, including HBV-replicating mouse models and HepG2.2.15 cells.
• HBV markers (HBsAg, HBeAg, HBV DNA) were quantified using ELISA and qPCR.
• Transcriptome sequencing, Western Blot, confocal imaging, and ROS assays were employed to analyze mitochondrial dynamics and oxidative stress.

Main Results:

• ICS II significantly inhibited HBV replication both in vivo and in vitro.
• ICS II modulated mitochondrial dynamics, inducing fragmentation and enhancing motility, and altered key proteins involved in mitochondrial fission/fusion.
• ICS II treatment led to a reduction in intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in HBV-positive cells.

Conclusions:

• ICS II exhibits significant anti-HBV potential.
• The therapeutic effects of ICS II are linked to its ability to regulate mitochondrial dynamics and decrease ROS production.