Development of a broad-spectrum antiviral with activity against Ebola virus

Antiviral Res. 2009 Sep;83(3):245-51. doi: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2009.06.001. Epub 2009 Jun 10.

Abstract

We report herein the identification of a small molecule therapeutic, FGI-106, which displays potent and broad-spectrum inhibition of lethal viral hemorrhagic fevers pathogens, including Ebola, Rift Valley and Dengue Fever viruses, in cell-based assays. Using mouse models of Ebola virus, we further demonstrate that FGI-106 can protect animals from an otherwise lethal infection when used either in a prophylactic or therapeutic setting. A single treatment, administered 1 day after infection, is sufficient to protect animals from lethal Ebola virus challenge. Cell-based assays also identified inhibitory activity against divergent virus families, which supports a hypothesis that FGI-106 interferes with a common pathway utilized by different viruses. These findings suggest FGI-106 may provide an opportunity for targeting viral diseases.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antiviral Agents / pharmacology*
  • Antiviral Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Cell Line, Tumor
  • Cell Survival
  • Chemoprevention
  • Dengue Virus / drug effects
  • Ebolavirus / drug effects*
  • Female
  • Hemorrhagic Fever, Ebola / drug therapy
  • Hemorrhagic Fever, Ebola / prevention & control
  • Male
  • Mice
  • Mice, Inbred BALB C
  • Molecular Structure
  • Rift Valley fever virus / drug effects
  • Viral Plaque Assay

Substances

  • Antiviral Agents