Análise in vitro da potencial atividade antiviral do óleo de andiroba (Carapa guianensis Aubl.) frente ao Herpes Simples Vírus -Tipo 1 (HSV-1).

Abstract

Infections caused by Herpes Simplex Virus type 1 (HSV-1) represent a serious global public health concern, affecting a significant portion of the population. Although conventional drugs like acyclovir and penciclovir remain the standard therapy, the emergence of resistant strains highlights the urgent need for effective alternative treatments. In this context, natural products emerge as promising therapeutic options. Within Brazil’s rich biodiversity, Carapa guianensis Aubl. (andiroba), from the Meliaceae family, stands out as a medicinal plant of great importance in the Amazon. The oil extracted from its seeds possesses several recognized medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antibacterial effects. This study proposes an in vitro evaluation of the antiviral activity of andiroba oil (AO) against HSV-1. Antiviral screening was conducted at different concentrations of AO through viral titration assays, evaluation of viral cytopathic effect inhibition, quantitative assessment via real-time PCR (qPCR), analysis of the protective effect of AO treatment before HSV-1 infection, and comparison between treatment with andiroba oil and the conventional drug against HSV1, acyclovir. Data analysis was performed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 24.0. Results were calculated from the original values and expressed as means. Statistical analysis was conducted using the Student's t-test with Welch's correction and ANOVA. Values with p less than 0.05 (α = 0.05) were considered significant. The reduction of the cytopathic effect following the use of AO suggests potential antiviral activity, particularly at higher concentrations (100 ng/mL). The dose response curve analysis clearly demonstrates a correlation between increased concentrations of AO and reduced HSV-1 replication. In the qPCR analysis, at a concentration of 10 ng/mL AO, a slight decrease in ΔCt values was observed as HSV-1 dilution increased, indicating modest antiviral efficacy. At 100 ng/mL AO, ΔCt values were lower than those observed at 10 ng/mL, suggesting greater antiviral activity with higher oil concentrations. These results indicate that AO exhibits in vitro antiviral activity, with greater efficacy at higher concentrations and lower viral loads, although it remains less effective than acyclovir. Based on these novel and promising findings, future studies using higher doses of andiroba oil should be conducted to further evaluate its antiviral activity.