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Quantitative Structure-Activity Relationship, Activity Prediction, and Molecular Dynamics of Non-nucleotide Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors
Published on: May 9, 2025
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Ruvidar®-An Effective Anti-Herpes Simplex Virus Agent.
Kevin M Coombs1, Roger DuMoulin-White2, Arkady Mandel2
1Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0J9, Canada.
Viruses
|September 27, 2025
Summary
Ruvidar® shows promise in inhibiting Herpes Simplex Virus type 1 (HSV-1) replication. This novel compound is effective alone and in combination with existing antivirals, even against resistant strains.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Antiviral Research
- Drug Discovery
Background:
- Herpes Simplex Viruses (HSVs) are widespread, causing lifelong infections.
- Current treatments like acyclovir target viral DNA synthesis but face resistance.
- Ruvidar® is a small molecule with previously demonstrated broad-spectrum antiviral activity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate Ruvidar®'s efficacy against HSV-1 replication in cell cultures.
- To assess Ruvidar®'s effectiveness in combination with acyclovir and metformin.
- To investigate Ruvidar®'s activity against acyclovir-resistant HSV-1 mutants.
Main Methods:
- HSV-1 replication was studied in Vero and U251 glioblastoma cells.
- Ruvidar® was tested alone and in combination with acyclovir and metformin.
- Experiments were conducted without light activation to simulate deep tissue conditions.
Main Results:
- Ruvidar® significantly inhibited HSV-1 replication at low concentrations.
- Combinational therapy with Ruvidar® showed additive and synergistic effects.
- Ruvidar® was effective against acyclovir-resistant HSV-1 and protected cells from cytopathology.
Conclusions:
- Ruvidar® is a potent inhibitor of HSV-1 replication.
- Ruvidar® offers a promising therapeutic option, particularly in combination therapies.
- Ruvidar® demonstrates efficacy against resistant HSV-1 strains and cytopathic effects.
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