Fungal Extract Shows Antiviral Activity Against COVID-19
Author Information
Author(s): Abdelsalam Eman, Ibrahim Amal Mosad, El-Rashedy Ahmed A., Abdel-Aziz Mohamed S., Kutkat Omnia, EL-Hady Faten K. Abd
Primary Institution: National Research Centre, Egypt
Hypothesis
Can the extract of Aspergillus tamarii SP73-EGY effectively combat COVID-19 and its co-infections?
Conclusion
The extract from Aspergillus tamarii demonstrated significant antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2 and other viruses.
Supporting Evidence
- The extract showed a high selectivity index (SI=43.4) against the low pathogenic coronavirus (229E).
- It was more effective than remdesivir against SARS-CoV-2.
- Kojic acid, a major component of the extract, also exhibited antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2.
- The extract demonstrated significant antibacterial activity against E. coli and P. aeruginosa.
Takeaway
Scientists found that a fungus extract can help fight the COVID-19 virus and other germs that make people sick.
Methodology
The study used in vitro and in silico methods to evaluate the antiviral properties of the fungal extract.
Limitations
The extract showed minimal efficacy against some viruses and its effectiveness in vivo remains to be tested.
Statistical Information
P-Value
8.205 μg/ml for 229E, 8.306 μg/ml for SARS-CoV-2
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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