Ebselen inhibited H3N2 influenza virus-induced apoptosis through the mitochondria-mediated signaling pathway

After the waning impact of the new coronaviruses, influenza viruses have become prevalent again in the last two years. H3N2 is a subtype of the influenza A virus and has become the dominant and most watched strain of seasonal influenza in the past decade. Ebselen, an organic selenium compound, plays a role in cardiovascular health and cancer prevention due to its antimicrobial and antioxidant effects. In our latest study, ebselen was found to effectively inhibit H3N2-mediated apoptosis in MDCK cells in vitro, as well as restore body weight and ameliorate lung inflammation and apoptosis in H3N2-infected mice in vivo. Further investigation revealed that ebselen inhibits mitochondria-mediated apoptosis, thereby preventing H3N2-mediated apoptosis. In summary, this study suggests that ebselen has potential as anti-H3N2 influenza virus drug.