MYCOLab Ai Logo - gold and army green

Quest for Anti-SARS-CoV-2 antiviral therapeutics: in-silico and in-vitro analysis of edible mushroom- Cordyceps militaris

Summary

Researchers tested an edible mushroom called Cordyceps militaris to see if it could fight SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. Using computer modeling and laboratory experiments, they found that a compound in the mushroom called cordycepin strongly attached to the virus’s spike protein and reduced viral numbers by about 50% in cell cultures. The study supports traditional uses of this mushroom and suggests it could be helpful in managing COVID-19 as the disease becomes endemic.

Background

SARS-CoV-2 continues to pose a significant global health threat with evolution and resurgence indicating endemic phase transition. Traditional herbal medicines, including Cordyceps species, have been used in conventional medicine but lack scientific validation for COVID-19 management. This study addresses the need for scientifically proven antiviral therapies to combat the disease during its endemic phase.

Objective

To conduct a comprehensive pharmacoinformatic analysis of chemical ingredients from Cordyceps militaris and evaluate its anti-SARS-CoV-2 potential through both computational and in-vitro approaches. The study aims to provide scientific basis for traditional medicinal use of C. militaris against COVID-19.

Results

Molecular docking revealed Cordycepin with highest affinity (-9.71 kcal/mol) to SARS-CoV-2 spike protein receptor binding domain. C. militaris aqueous extract reduced viral copy numbers by 50.24% at 100 μg/mL concentration. Network pharmacology identified multiple bioactive compounds with multi-targeting potential against viral infection mechanisms.

Conclusion

C. militaris demonstrates promising anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity through both computational and experimental validation, supporting its exploration as traditional medicine for COVID-19 management during the endemic phase. Further in-vitro studies with variants and in-vivo animal models are warranted to substantiate these findings.
  • Published in:Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine,
  • Study Type:In-silico and In-vitro Study,
  • Source: PMID: 38871595, DOI: 10.1016/j.jaim.2024.100979
Scroll to Top