Glycyrrhizic acid inhibits virus growth and inactivates virus particles

R Pompei, O Flore, MA Marccialis, A Pani, B Loddo - Nature, 1979 - nature.com
R Pompei, O Flore, MA Marccialis, A Pani, B Loddo
Nature, 1979nature.com
Screening investigations in antiviral action of plant extracts have revealed that a component
of Glycyrrhiza glabra roots, found to be glycyrrhizic acid, is active against viruses. We report
here that this drug inhibits growth and cytopathology of several unrelated DNA and RNA
viruses, while not affecting cell activity and ability to replicate. In addition, glycyrrhizic acid
inactivates herpes simplex virus particles irreversibly.
Abstract
Screening investigations in antiviral action of plant extracts have revealed that a component of Glycyrrhiza glabra roots, found to be glycyrrhizic acid, is active against viruses. We report here that this drug inhibits growth and cytopathology of several unrelated DNA and RNA viruses, while not affecting cell activity and ability to replicate. In addition, glycyrrhizic acid inactivates herpes simplex virus particles irreversibly.
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