Potential antiviral activity of metformin against human Adenovirus-7

Document Type : Original Article

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Microbiology and Immunology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Pharos University in Alexandria, Alexandria, Egypt

Abstract

Background: Human adenovirus 7(HAdV-7) cause acute respiratory tract infections with high morbidity and mortality rates in children and immunocompromised adults. Metformin is a natural oral antihyperglycemic drug, that possesses antiviral activity. Our study aimed to investigate and compare the antiviral activity and mechanism of action of metformin and ribavirin against HAdV-7. Methods: The antiviral activity and cytotoxicity of each of metformin and ribavirin per se and in combination were tested using the crystal violet method. The mechanism of action of metformin against HAdV-7 was assessed during viral adsorption and replication phases. The viricidal effect and cytopathic effect inhibition of metformin was also determined.  Results: Metformin revealed a moderate antiviral activity against HAdV-7 with a selective index = estimated CC50/estimated IC50 = 5.0 in comparison with selective index of ribavirin 1.82. Metformin demonstrated modest antiviral activity against HAdV-7 with a selective index = estimated CC50/estimated IC50 = 5.62 during the replication process, but not during the other phases of infection. The combined effect of both drugs revealed a low antiviral activity against HAdV-7 in comparison to using each drug alone; Antiviral index = 2.87, SI = 5.0. Conclusion:  Metformin has a potential promising antiviral activity against HAdV-7.

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