04/05/2026
Multi-Target Antiviral Activity of High-Purity Flavonoids: Integrated In Silico, SPR, and In Vitro Evaluation. A white paper
Abstract
The emergence of respiratory viral pathogens such as COVID-19 and influenza underscores the need for novel antiviral strategies targeting viral entry mechanisms. This study evaluates a set of high-purity (≥95%) flavonoid compounds for their ability to interact with viral surface proteins, including the spike glycoprotein of SARS-CoV-2, hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA) of Influenza virus, and capsid proteins of Rhinovirus.
A multi-tiered evaluation approach was employed, integrating molecular docking, Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR), and in vitro cellular assays. Results demonstrate selective binding affinity of specific flavonoids to viral surface proteins, coupled with minimal cytotoxicity to mammalian cells. These findings support a mechanism-based strategy in which flavonoids may interfere with viral entry processes.
1. Introduction
Viral entry into host cells is mediated by highly specific interactions between viral surface proteins and host receptors. For example:
The spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 binds ACE2 receptors
Influenza HA mediates viral attachment, while NA facilitates viral release
Rhinovirus capsid proteins interact with host cell adhesion molecules
Targeting these early-stage interactions represents a promising antiviral strategy.
Flavonoids, a class of polyphenolic compounds derived from plants, have been widely studied for their bioactive properties. However, most commercially available formulations rely on crude extracts, limiting specificity and reproducibility.
This study focuses on high-purity flavonoid compounds (≥95%) selected based on structural compatibility with viral proteins, with the goal of identifying candidates capable of direct molecular interaction with viral antigens.
