The amphibian peptide Yodha is virucidal for Zika and dengue viruses

• Authors: Song Hee Lee, Emory University; Eui Ho Kim, Emory University; Justin T. O'neal, Emory University; Gordon Dale, Emory University; David J. Holthausen, Emory University; James R. Bowen, Emory University; Kendra M. Quicke, Emory University; Ioanna Skountzou, Emory University; Shyla Gopal, Rajiv Gandhi Center for Biotechnology; Sanil George, Rajiv Gandhi Center for Biotechnology; Jens Wrammert, Emory University; Mehul Suthar, Emory University; Joshy Jacob, Emory University
• Journal Title: SCIENTIFIC REPORTS
• Volume: Volume 11, Number 1
• Publisher: NATURE RESEARCH | 2021-01-12, Pages 602-602
• Type of Work: Article | Final Publisher PDF
• Publisher DOI: http://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-020-80596-4
• Subjects: Health Sciences, Epidemiology; Health Sciences, Public Health
• Keywords: Science & Technology; Multidisciplinary Sciences; Science & Technology - Other Topics

Abstract

Zika virus (ZIKV) has emerged as a serious health threat in the Americas and the Caribbean. ZIKV is transmitted by the bite of an infected mosquito, sexual contact, and blood transfusion. ZIKV can also be transmitted to the developing fetus in utero, in some cases resulting in spontaneous abortion, fetal brain abnormalities, and microcephaly. In adults, ZIKV infection has been correlated with Guillain–Barre syndrome. Despite the public health threat posed by ZIKV, neither a vaccine nor antiviral drugs for use in humans are currently available. We have identified an amphibian host defense peptide, Yodha, which has potent virucidal activity against ZIKV. It acts directly on the virus and destroys Zika virus particles within 5 min of exposure. The Yodha peptide was effective against the Asian, African, and South American Zika virus strains and has the potential to be developed as an antiviral therapeutic in the fight against Zika virus. The peptide was also effective against all four dengue virus serotypes. Thus, Yodha peptide could potentially be developed as a pan-therapeutic for Zika and dengue viruses.