Inhibition of Herpes Simplex Viruses by Cationic Dextran Derivatives

Human herpesviruses are among the
most prevalent pathogens and
currently there are no drugs available that could cure diseases induced
by them. The most widely utilized antiherpes drugs, acyclovir and
its derivatives, have serious limitations, such as low bioavailability
and severe side effects. The current paper reports on the synthesis
and characterization of cationic dextran derivatives (DEXxDSy) of various molecular
weights and various degrees of substitution with ammonium groups,
which were tested as antiherpes agents. DEXxDSy showed high effectiveness against
HSV-1 and HSV-2 viruses, as found using a variety of techniques. Importantly,
no toxicity was observed for these compounds in the range of active
concentrations, demonstrating their potential as antivirals. The mechanism
of action of DEXxDSy was assessed. We hypothesize that they may limit virus transmission,
as extensive examination showed that they hamper the interaction between
the virus and the cellular attachment receptor.