EVALUATION OF THE ANTIVIRAL ACTIVITY OF ANDIROBA OIL (CARAPA GUIANENSIS AUBL.) IN AN IN VITRO MODEL OF HSV-1 INFECTION.

Abstract

Infections caused by Herpes Simplex Virus type 1 (HSV-1) represent a serious global public health issue, affecting a significant portion of the population. The emergence of resistant strains highlights the urgent need for effective treatment alternatives. 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. This study proposes an in vitro evaluation of the antiviral activity of andiroba oil (AO) in HSV-1-infected Vero E6 cells. The oil was analyzed through gas chromatography (GC-MS), and its antiviral activity at different concentrations was assessed using a viral titration assay through the reduction of viral cytopathic effect (CPE). Data analysis was performed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 24.0. Results were calculated based on original values and expressed as means. Statistical analyses included the Student's t-test with Welch correction and ANOVA. The reduction in CPE after AO treatment suggests a potential antiviral effect, with a more pronounced antiviral response observed at higher HSV-1 dilutions treated with a higher andiroba oil dose (100 ng/mL). The dose-response curve analysis clearly demonstrates a correlation between increased AO concentration and decreased HSV-1 replication. These initial findings support further investigations into the use of andiroba oil as a therapeutic alternative against HSV-1.