Inhibition of multiplication of the prototypic arenavirus LCMV by valproic acid

Antiviral Res. 2013 Aug;99(2):172-9. doi: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2013.05.012. Epub 2013 Jun 2.

Abstract

Valproic acid (VPA), a short chain fatty acid commonly used for treatment of neurological disorders, has been shown to inhibit production of infectious progeny of different enveloped viruses including the prototypic arenavirus lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV). In this study we have investigated the mechanisms by which VPA inhibits LCMV multiplication in cultured cells. VPA reduced production of infectious LCMV progeny and virus propagation without exerting a major blockage on either viral RNA or protein synthesis, but rather affecting the cell release and specific infectivity of LCMV progeny from infected cells. Our results would support the repurposing of VPA as a candidate antiviral drug to combat arenavirus infections.

Keywords: Antiviral; Budding; LCMV; Valproic acid.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antiviral Agents / pharmacology*
  • Arenaviridae Infections / drug therapy
  • Arenaviridae Infections / virology
  • Cell Line
  • Chlorocebus aethiops
  • Cricetinae
  • Drug Discovery
  • Enzyme Inhibitors / pharmacology*
  • HEK293 Cells
  • Humans
  • Lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus / drug effects*
  • Lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus / genetics
  • Lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus / pathogenicity
  • Lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus / physiology
  • RNA, Viral / biosynthesis
  • Valproic Acid / pharmacology*
  • Vero Cells
  • Virus Release / drug effects*
  • Virus Replication / drug effects*

Substances

  • Antiviral Agents
  • Enzyme Inhibitors
  • RNA, Viral
  • Valproic Acid