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Updated: Jun 12, 2025

Early Viral Entry Assays for the Identification and Evaluation of Antiviral Compounds
Published on: October 29, 2015
Potential of fat-soluble vitamins as a platform for antiviral drug development
Yoshihisa Hirota1, Mika Okamoto2, Masanori Baba2
1Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Bioscience and Engineering, College of Systems Engineering and Science, Shibaura Institute of Technology, 307 Fukasaku, Minuma-ku, Saitama 337-8570, Japan.
Abstract:
Fat-soluble vitamins, including vitamins A, D, E, and K, exhibit antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects, making them promising candidates for antiviral drug development. This review highlights their structural features, biological roles, and antiviral potential. Vitamin A derivatives modulate immunity and inhibit viral replication, including SARS-CoV-2. Vitamin D analogs enhance immune responses and target viral enzymes, while vitamin E derivatives reduce oxidative stress and may directly inhibit viral replication. Emerging research on vitamin K derivatives suggests potential antiviral applications. These findings underscore the potential of fat-soluble vitamins as innovative antiviral agents, warranting further investigation to optimize efficacy and clinical use.
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