Anticoronavirus Isoquinoline Alkaloids: Unraveling the Secrets of Their Structure–Activity Relationship

    October 2025 in “ Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses ”
    Marcela Šafratová, Yu‐Li Chen, Anna Hošťálková, Jakub Chlebek, Chung‐Fan Hsieh, Bing‐Hung Chen, Lucie Cahlíková, Štefan Kosturko, Anders Backlund, Jim‐Tong Horng, Tsong‐Long Hwang, Michal Kořínek
    Studysummary This study found that bis-benzylisoquinoline and Amaryllidaceae alkaloids, especially aromoline, show potential as antiviral agents, suggesting they could serve as foundations for developing new treatments against coronaviruses by enhancing the understanding of their structure-activity relationships.
    Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer
    This study evaluates the antiviral activity of isoquinoline and Amaryllidaceae-type alkaloids against coronaviruses, focusing on their structure–activity relationships. Using Huh7 cancer cells and a lentivirus-based SARS-CoV-2 entry assay, several alkaloids, including haemanthidine, aromoline, and berbamine, showed significant protective effects against human coronavirus 229E. Aromoline was particularly potent against SARS-CoV-2 variants, suggesting its potential as a pan-coronavirus entry inhibitor. The study highlights the favorable safety profiles and drug-like properties of these alkaloids, suggesting their potential for therapeutic development against COVID-19. Molecular docking studies indicate that these compounds interact with the SARS-CoV-2 S-protein, inhibiting virus entry into host cells.
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