Lignosus rhinocerus TM02 (R) sclerotia extract inhibits dengue virus replication and Infection

• Main Authors: Khazali, Ahmad Suhail, Rashid, Nurshamimi Nor, Fung, Shin-Yee, Yusof, Rohana
• Format: Article
• Published: Elsevier 2021
• Subjects: R Medicine (General)
• Online Access: http://eprints.um.edu.my/26508/
• Institution: Universiti Malaya

Lignosus rhinocerus (L. rhinocerus) is a rare in Southeast Asia and has been long used by the natives for various medicinal purposes. In the advent of the mushroom's successful cultivation, a novel cultivar, named L.rhinocerus TM02 (R), was produced and has been tested for anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative, antioxidant, and other medicinal properties. However, the antiviral effects of TM02 (R) cultivar have not been demonstrated. In this study, the antiviral properties of cold-water extract (CWE) from the sclerotium of L.rhinocerus TM02 (R) cultivar were investigated, in inhibiting dengue serotype 2 infection in Vero cells. The authors observed a dose-dependent inhibition on dengue virus replication, particularly during the early stage of dengue infection. The extract also exhibited a significant virucidal effect and displayed a mild prophylactic effect. Hence, in the absence of antidengue treatment and limited dengue vaccination, these results indicate that TM02 (R) CWE may serve as an alternative medicine in reducing dengue infection. Further studies are required to identify and verify the bioactive compounds of TM02 (R) CWE that mediate the antiviral activity.