Nikhil Prasad Fact checked by:Thailand Medical News Team Jan 07, 2025 1 day, 4 hours, 59 minutes ago
Medical News: A groundbreaking study has revealed the potential of two well-known compounds, Obatoclax and Emetine, in inhibiting the replication of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV). Conducted by an international team of researchers from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology, the University of Tartu in Estonia, Institut Pasteur Korea, the University of Turku in Finland, and Umeå University in Sweden, the study underscores a promising advance in antiviral therapy.
Obatoclax and Emetine Found to Inhibit Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV)
What Is Human Metapneumovirus?
Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a significant respiratory pathogen that primarily infects young children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals. It is responsible for a wide range of illnesses, from mild upper respiratory infections to severe pneumonia. Despite its prevalence, no specific antiviral treatments for HMPV currently exist, making the discovery of effective inhibitors critical.
This
Medical News report delves into a recent study that evaluated 43 broad-spectrum antiviral agents (BSAAs) to identify potential inhibitors for HMPV. Among the compounds tested, Obatoclax and Emetine demonstrated notable antiviral activities.
Obatoclax and Emetine: An Overview
Obatoclax, also known as GX15-070, was initially developed as an experimental anticancer drug. Discovered by Gemin X, which later became part of Teva Pharmaceuticals, Obatoclax functions by inhibiting the Bcl-2 family of proteins, thereby inducing apoptosis in cancer cells. While its solubility posed challenges during development, its potential as a broad-spectrum antiviral agent has now come to light.
Emetine, on the other hand, has a long history as an anti-protozoal agent derived from the ipecac root. Known for its emetic properties, it has also been used to treat amoebiasis. In recent years, Emetine has gained attention for its antiviral properties, though its potential cardiac toxicity necessitates careful administration.
Key Findings of the Study
In the study, Obatoclax and Emetine were tested for their efficacy in inhibiting HMPV in cell cultures. Both compounds exhibited significant antiviral activity without notable cytotoxic effects at effective concentrations.
-Inhibition Metrics: Obatoclax showed a selectivity index (SI) of 6, while Emetine achieved an SI of 10, indicating their ability to effectively inhibit viral replication while maintaining cellular viability.
-Mechanisms of Action: The researchers propose that Obatoclax targets cellular pathways critical for viral replication, potentially involving the inhibition of the Bcl-2 protein family. Emetine, meanwhile, may interfere with viral polymerase activity, hindering the virus’ ability to replicate its genetic material.
-Experimental Details: The study employed green fluorescent protein (GFP)-t
agged HMPV to monitor viral replication in infected cells. Fluorescent microscopy and viability assays confirmed the effectiveness of the compounds. Obatoclax and Emetine both significantly reduced GFP expression, indicating successful inhibition of HMPV replication.
Implications for Antiviral Research
The findings of this study are particularly significant as they highlight the potential of drug repurposing in addressing unmet medical needs. Both Obatoclax and Emetine have undergone extensive testing for their original indications, providing a wealth of safety and pharmacokinetic data that can accelerate their development as antiviral agents.
Drug repurposing is a cost-effective strategy that leverages existing knowledge about a compound’s safety profile. By identifying novel antiviral activities for Obatoclax and Emetine, the researchers have expanded the potential therapeutic applications of these drugs.
Study Limitations and Future Directions
While the results are promising, the study’s findings are based on in vitro experiments. The antiviral properties of Obatoclax and Emetine must be validated in animal models and clinical trials to confirm their efficacy and safety against HMPV in humans. Additionally, researchers need to explore optimal dosing regimens to minimize potential side effects, particularly for Emetine, which has known cardiotoxicity risks.
The possibility of combining these compounds with other antiviral agents also warrants investigation. Such combinations could enhance efficacy and reduce the likelihood of resistance, providing a robust defense against HMPV and potentially other respiratory viruses.
Conclusion
The discovery of Obatoclax and Emetine as effective inhibitors of HMPV marks a significant milestone in antiviral research. These compounds not only hold promise for combating HMPV but also exemplify the value of drug repurposing in rapidly addressing emerging health threats. By targeting essential viral replication pathways, Obatoclax and Emetine could become critical tools in the fight against respiratory viruses.
The study findings were published in the peer-reviewed journal: Viruses.
https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4915/11/10/964
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Medical News.
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https://www.thailandmedical.news/news/columbia-university-study-finds-that-the-phytochemical-ginkgolic-acid-can-inhibit-human-metapneumovirus-infectivity
https://www.thailandmedical.news/news/the-phytochemical-gamma-fagarine-from-the-root-of-zanthoxylum-bungeanum-is-an-effective-antiviral-against-hmpv
https://www.thailandmedical.news/articles/hmpv-human-metapneumovirus
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