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Research Article
Identification of Dietary Molecules as Therapeutic Agents to Combat COVID-19 Using Molecular Docking Studies
Mohammad Faheem Khan
Era' Lucknow medical College, Era University, Lucknow-226003, India
Corresponding Author
ORCiD: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1943-7160
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This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License. Read Full License
Recently, a new and fatal strain of coronavirus named as SARS-CoV-2 (Disease: COVID-19) appeared in Wuhan, China in December of 2019. Due to its fast growing human to human transmission and confirmed cases in nearly every country, it has been declared as pandemic by World Health Organisation (WHO) on 11 March 2020. Till now, there is no therapy such as vaccines and specific therapeutic agents available globally. Inspite of this, some protease inhibitors and antiviral agents namely lopinavir, ritonavir, remdisivir and chloroquine are under investigation and also implemented in several countries as therapeutic agents for the treatment of COVID-19. Seeing the health crisis across the world, it was our aim to find out a suitable drug candidate which could target SARS-CoV-2. For this purpose, molecular docking of 7 proteinsof SARS-CoV-2 was done with 18active constituents that have previously been reported to be antiviral or anti-SARS-CoV agents. The docking results of these 18 compounds were compared with 2 FDA approved drugs that have are currently being used in COVID 19, namely Remdesivir and Chloroquine. Our result revealed that among all, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a major constituent of green tea, is the lead compound that could fit well into the binding sites of docked proteins of SARS-CoV-2. EGCG showed very strong molecular interactions with binding energies -9.30, -8.66, -8.38, -7.57, -7.26, -6.99 and -4.90 kcal/mole for6y2e, 6vw1, 6vww, 6lxt,6vsb, 6lu7 and 6lvnproteins of SARS-CoV-2, respectively.Therefore, EGCG as per our results, should be explored as a drug candidate for the treatment of COVID-19.
Keywords
SARS-CoV-2, EGCG, COVID-19, Dietary Molecules, Molecular Docking
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
The Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV–2) has emerged as a virus ofgrave concern due to its ability to cause the severe and life-threatening diseasecalledcoronavirus disease 2019 (COVID–19) with high mortality rate worldwide [1]. World Health Organization (WHO) declared COVID–19 as a pandemic disease on 11 March 2020 [2]. As per “situation report–63”released by WHO on 23 March 2020, more than300,000 cases and 14510deaths have been confirmed globally.ByJanuary 12, 2020 the Chinese authorities had released the whole genome sequence of SARS-CoV–2 which has been hallmark for researchers worldwide to quickly identify and develop the potential candidates by using computational methods and other therapeutic techniques [3]. First publication along with other recent studies on current outbreak revealed that SARS-CoV–2 is a member of the coronavirus family and shared 96% similarity with previously identified genome of SARS-CoV that had emerged in China in November, 2002 [4].
Based on recent studies, this virus has a complex genomic organization consisting of single stranded-positive sense RNA which codes for several structural and non-structural proteins (nsps) including envelope protein (E) gene, spike protein (S) gene, membrane protein (M) gene, nucleocapsid protein (N) gene, replicase complex (orf1ab) gene along with 3’ and 5’-untranslated region (UTR) [5, 6]. As per study carried out by K. Anand et al. in 2003, coronaviruses make small polypeptide chains during transcription by proteolytic enzymes such as papain-like protease (PLpro) and 3-chymotrypsin-like protease (3CLpro) to form several types of non-structural proteins which are responsible for viral replication [7]. Additionally, unique spike protein (S) has also been found to have a strong affinity with the human ACE2 receptor [8]. Thus, both main protease and spike protein complexed with human ACE2 receptor might be important targets to discover and develop vaccines and other therapeutic agents to control this new CoV.
Since the first reported case of COVID 19 on 31 December 2019, no specific medication is available to prevent or kill the SARS-CoV–2 so far. Preliminary treatment of COVID–19 depends upon the severity of infection which ranges from mild to strong including, if necessary administration of oxygen, maintaining the body fluids and administration of antibiotics and antiviral drugs to combat co-infections because of numerous types of bacteria and virus [9]. Recent studies suggested the use of remdisivir and chloroquine along with HIV–1 protease inhibitors like lopinavir and ritonavir as therapeutic agents for the treatment of COVID–19 [10]. Moreover, Xu et al. identified four tested drugs nelfinavir, praziquantel, perampanel and pitavestatin as potential candidates against SARS-CoV–2 using computational methods. Therefore, three approaches need to be urgently pursued, namely vaccines, post exposure prophylaxis and therapeutic agents that target virus-encoded functions, replication, infection as well as the respiratory symptoms in humans that exacerbate the disease.
In the last decade, dietary moleculesfrom edible herbs and vegetables have ofgreat interest amongresearchers worldwide because of their diversified and complex structures having health benefits with no or minimal side-effects [11]. These dietary molecules may be developed as herbal medicines or therapeutic agents in the prevention and treatment of current COVID–19 disease. In previous studies, numerous dietary molecules such as curcumin, savinin and betulinic acid have been found to show inhibition of SARS-CoV in the range of 3–10 μM concentrations [12]. Recently, kaempferol, quercetin, luteolin–7-glucoside, demethoxycurcumin, naringenin, apigenin–7-glucoside, oleuropein, curcumin, catechin, and epicatechin-gallate have been identified as significant anti-COVID–19 agents with the help of molecular docking study [13]. Seeing this terrible and deadly crisis, as yet, it is urgent and timely need to evaluate and develop more potent and reliable anti-COVID–19agents which are easy to reach us. In this study, we evaluated 18 dietary moleculesnamely epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), piperine, apigenin, curcumin, gingerol-[6], beta glucan, resveratrol, myricetin, quercetin, genistein, diadzein, alliin, allicin, sulphoraphane, phycocyanobillin, ferulic acid and alpha lipoic acid by using molecular docking study. Our findings will provide valuable information to explore and develop dietary moleculesas novel anti-COVID–19 agents in the future.
To obtain molecular interactions of selected dietary molecules with the binding pockets of different types of proteins of COVID–19, molecular docking analysis was carried out by using computer cluster system provided by Gigabyte Technology co., LTD, model-B365M DS3H running Intel Core i5–9400F CPU @2.90GHz Processor, 16 GB RAM, 1TB hard disk, and Intel HD Graphic card. The crystal structures of seven types of newly released proteins of COVID–19 were retrieved from protein data bank (PDB) site whose PDB IDs were 6lu7, 6lvn, 6lxt, 6vsb, 6vw1, 6vww and 6y2e.Prior to docking study, the retrieval of target protein binding sites was necessary to find the best docking result. Binding site retrieval was performed with the help of Discovery Studio 3.0 Visualizer by removing Hetatm and adding hydrogen atom to the protein. The top binding sites were used for the docking analysis. The chemical structures of selected dietary moleculesand reference drugs were retrieved from the PubChem site with their PubChem IDs: 650336, 87310, 5280443, 439262, 969516, 5281708, 65064, 445858, 5280961, 442793, 18897, 6112, 5281672, 5460417, 638024, 5280343, 445154, 5350, 121304016 and 2719. The geometries of all compounds were optimized with Discovery Studio 3.0 visualizerby using clean geometry option and applied the Dreiding force field on ligand molecule.The preparation of target proteins was performed on AutoDock tool 4.2.6, by addition of polar hydrogen atoms and Kollman charges and their PDBQT files were saved. Ligand preparation was done by detecting root, set number of torsion and aromaticity criterion. Preparation of grid mapsfor each protein was performed by inputting binding site coordinates which were retrieved by Discovery Studio 3.0 visualizer and Grid Box X, Y, and Z dimensions changed from default to 50×50×50. Docking was performed by Lamarckian genetic algorithm and empirical scoring function by using flexible method.Alldocking results were analyzed with the help of AD4 analyze option to find out the binding energy (BE) and inhibitory constant (Ki) of the ligand with a particular target protein. Visualization of structural complex of ligand and protein was done with the help of Discovery Studio 3.0 Client [14, 15].
In the light of recent pandemic situation, there are two questions raised: first of which protein molecule of SARS-CoV–2 is responsible for their high virulence and replication processeswhile second is that which therapeutic agent can prevent or kill the SARS-CoV–2. For the answer of the first question, we searched the literatureand found out recently released structural and non-structural proteins of SARS-CoV–2 which are structured and repositioned on Protein Data Bank (PDB) site (https://www.rcsb.org/). Thus, based on database of PDB, we have selected seven different types of protein macromolecules which play a pivotal role in propagating the SARS-CoV–2 (table 1). Our intriguing protein targets include main protease covid–19 (6lu7), structure of the 2019-nCoV HR2 Domain (6lvn), structure of post fusion core of 2019-nCoV S2 subunit (6lxt), prefusion 2019-nCoV spike glycoprotein (6vsb), structure of 2019-nCoV chimeric receptor-binding domain complexed with its receptor human ACE2 (6vw1), crystal structure of NSP15 endoribonuclease from SARS CoV–2 (6vww) and crystal structure of the free enzyme of the SARS-CoV–2 (2019-nCoV) main protease (6y2e).
Due to technical limitations, Table 1 is provided in the Supplementary Files section.
In search of the answer for the second question, we selected 18 dietary molecules namely allicin, alliin, apigenin, beta-glucan, curcumin, diadzein, EGCG, ferullic acid, genistein, gingerol-[6], glucosamine, alpha-lipoic acid, myricetin, phycocyanobillin, piperine, quercetin, resveratrol andsulphoraphanethat are abundantly present in commonly used herbs, spices, fruits and vegetables. All the dietary moleculesexhibited either antiviral or anti-SARS-CoV activities as reported in previous studies (table 2).Recent studies revealed that some drugs like remdisivir, chloroquine, lopinavir and ritonavir could be repurposed and studied to treat COVID–19. All these dietary molecules as well as selected drugs remdisivir and chloroquine as control to verify and compare our results were docked against SARS-CoV–2 3CL homology model. Based on our docking analysis, we recommend that theligands with the highest binding affinity and lowest inhibition constant be considered for further investigation.
Due to technical limitations, Table2 is provided in the Supplementary Files section.
Among these dietary molecules, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) which is found abundantly in green tea, was found as most active agent against COVID–19. EGCG showed highest binding affinity (–9.30kcal/mole) and lowest inhibition constant (0.152µM) for 6y2e protein. Moreover, EGCG exhibited a strong molecular interaction with 6vw1 which is an important target of this new CoV. It showed highest binding affinity and lowest inhibition constant with –8.66 kcal/mole and 0.152µM values respectively. Further, EGCG displayed excellent interactions with 6vww wherein it showed highest binding affinity (–8.38 kcal/mole) with lowest inhibition constant at 0.724 µM concentration. Additionally, EGCG also exhibited good molecular interactions with SARS-CoV–2 proteins 6lu7, 6lvn, 6lxt, and 6vsb with the values of binding energies and inhibition constant as –6.99, –4.90, –7.57, –7.26 kcal/mole and 7.57, 255.95, 2.84, 4.75 µM concentrations. The computed activity of EGCG was found to be higher than that of both reference drugs, Remdesivir and Chloroquine. All docked poses are depicted in figure 1 and 2 which showstrong interactions of EGCG with selected protein residues.
It has been established that the molecules having hydroxyl (-OH) and carbonyl (C = O) functionalities showed strong intermolecular interactions with amino acid residues at active sites of proteins through physical forces such as hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic bonds. Due to amount and types of these intermolecular interactions, they show druggable and druglikeness properties. In this study, we also identified eight more active phytochemicals namely curcumin, apigenin, beta-glucan, myricetin, piperine, genistein, diadzein and quercetin. Apigenin, myricetin, and quercetin are flavonoids while genistein and diadzein are isoflavonoids. On the other hand curcumin and piperineare phenolic compounds whereas beta-glucan is a polymer of sugar. They all have hydroxyl (-OH) and carbonyl (C = O) functionalitiesin their core structures and hence exhibited strong molecular interaction with all protein macromolecules chosen under this study. All values of binding affinities and inhibition constant of these dietary molecules are listed in table 3.
Table 3: Molecular docking values of phytochemicals against target protein macromolecules
|
Phytochemicals |
Targets Proteins; binding energy in kcal/mole (inhibition constant in µM) |
|
|
|
||||
|
|
|
6lu7 |
6lvn |
6lxt |
6vsb |
6vw1 |
6vww |
6y2e |
|
1 |
EGCG |
-6.99 (7.57) |
-4.90 (255.95) |
-7.57 (2.84) |
-7.26 (4.75) |
-8.66 (0.451) |
-8.38 (0.724) |
-9.30 (0.152) |
|
2 |
Curcumin |
-6.04 (37.57) |
-4.73 (340.89) |
-5.50 (92.90) |
-5.05 (197.96) |
-7.13 (5.91) |
-7.37 (3.96) |
-7.39 (3.83) |
|
3 |
Apigenin |
-5.96 (43.03) |
-3.71 (1.9x10-5) |
-5.13 (1.74x10-5) |
-5.98 (4.1x10-5) |
-6.02 (38.69) |
-6.48 (17.86) |
-7.05 (6.76) |
|
4 |
Beta Glucan |
-5.96 (42.79) |
-4.16 (889.95) |
-5.06 (195.39) |
-3.20 (4.4x10-5) |
-6.44 (19.09) |
-6.72 (11.86) |
-7.05 (6.83) |
|
5 |
Myricetin |
-5.38 (114.10) |
-3.70 (1.96x10-5) |
-5.74 (62.01) |
-6.14 (31.32) |
-6.50 (17.16) |
-6.57 (15.20) |
-7.15 (5.79) |
|
6 |
Quercetin |
-5.29 (132.27) |
-3.68 (2.02x10-5) |
-5.73 (63.52) |
-6.14 (31.32) |
-6.59 (14.73) |
-6.53 (16.36) |
-6.77 (10.86) |
|
7 |
Piperine |
-5.16 (165.72) |
-4.08 (1.02x10-5) |
-5.40 (109.87) |
-6.05 (36.85) |
-5.64 (73.80) |
-6.18 (29.44) |
-6.40 (20.37) |
|
8 |
Genistein |
-5.03 (204.91) |
-3.97 (1.24x10-5) |
-5.68 (69.09) |
-6.54 (16.04) |
-6.35 (22.18) |
-6.73 (11.70 ) |
-6.80 (10.32) |
|
9 |
Diadzein |
-4.86 (275.53) |
-3.72 (1.89x10-5) |
-5.21 (151.77) |
-6.16 (30.34) |
-5.96 (42.54) |
-6.43 (19.50) |
-6.05 (36.86) |
|
10 |
Ferulic acid |
-4.76 (322.26) |
-2.79 (9.00x10-5) |
-3.75 (1.80 x10-5) |
-5.44 (103.05) |
-3.74 (1.8x10-5) |
-3.90 (1.3 x10-5) |
-4.71 (355.68) |
|
11 |
Alliin |
-4.66 (385.74) |
-3.90 (1.37x10-5) |
-5.02 (210.26) |
-4.57 (447.67) |
-5.15 (168.32) |
-4.07 (1.0 x10-5) |
-5.68 (68.09) |
|
12 |
Lipoic acid |
-4.58 (439.80) |
-1.90 (40.6x10-5) |
-3.25 (4.16x10-5) |
-4.93 (243.60) |
-2.73 (9.9x10-5) |
-3.38 (3.3 x10-5) |
-3.59 (2.3x10-5) |
|
13 |
Resveratrol |
-4.20 (832.91) |
-3.58 (2.38x10-5) |
-4.32 (685.04) |
-5.57 (82.09) |
-5.26 (138.32) |
-5.57 (83.02) |
-5.54 (86.98) |
|
14 |
Glucosamine |
-4.06 (1.06x10-5) |
-3.59 (2.32x10-5) |
-5.26 (138.93) |
-4.89 (262.36) |
-6.77 (10.89) |
-4.18 (862.43) |
-4.70 (359.49) |
|
15 |
Gingerol-[6] |
-4.00 (1.16) |
-2.23 (23.38) |
-3.08 (50.56) |
-4.46 (537.58) |
-4.60 (425.87) |
-4.57 (449.30) |
-5.30 (130.87) |
|
16 |
Sulforaphane |
-3.74 (1.81x10-5) |
-2.25 (22.3x10-5) |
-3.11 (5.22x10-5) |
-3.43 (3.0x10-5) |
-3.46 (2.9x10-5) |
-3.21 (4.4x10-5) |
-4.21 (815.35) |
|
17 |
Allicin |
-3.46 (2.89x10-5) |
-2.09 (29.4x10-5) |
-3.20 (4.49x10-5) |
-3.46 (2.92) |
-3.07 (5.6x10-5) |
-3.14 (5.0x10-5) |
-3.63 (2.1x10-5) |
|
18 |
PCB |
+0.16, (Nil) |
-3.12 (5.14x10-5) |
-4.63 (4.05x10-5) |
+11.3 (Nil) |
-3.59 (2.3x10-5) |
-6.14 (3.1x10-5) |
-5.15 (1.6x10-5) |
|
19 |
Remdesvir |
-2.47 (15.4x10-5) |
-2.68 (10.7x10-5) |
-4.84 (281.48) |
-4.27 (745.64) |
-5.27 (136.97) |
-5.10 (183.96) |
-5.47 (97.23) |
|
20 |
Chloroquine |
-3.62 (2.2x10-5) |
-3.26 (4.0x10-5) |
-4.35 (651.5) |
-4.79 (309.3) |
-6.41 (19.9) |
-4.85 (277.5) |
-6.10 (33.5) |
6lu7: Main protease of covid-19; 6lvn: Structure of the 2019-nCoV-HR2 Domain; 6lxt: Structure of post fusion core of 2019-nCoV S2 subunit; 6vsb: Prefusion 2019-nCoV spike glycoprotein; 6vw1: Structure of 2019-nCoV chimeric receptor-binding domain complexed with its receptor human ACE2; 6vww: Crystal structure of NSP15 endoribonuclease from SARS CoV-2; 6y2e: Crystal structure of the free enzyme of the SARS-CoV-2 (2019-nCoV) main protease. Remdesvir and Chloroquine are used as standard drugs to compare our results; EGCG: Epigallocatechin gallate; PCB: Phycocyanobillin
From docking results as well as analysis of binding affinity with binding pockets within active sites of proteins, we prepared a decreasing order of their potency against SARS-CoV–2.
- Orderof activityagainst main protease (6lu7) of SARS-CoV–2is EGCG > curcumin > apigenin > beta-glucan > myricetin
- Order of activity against HR2 domain of spike glycoprotein (6lvn) of SARS-CoV–2is EGCG > curcumin > beta-glucan > piperine > genistein.
- Order of activity against chimeric receptor-binding domain of spike glycoprotein (6vw1) of SARS-CoV–2 is EGCG > curcumin > glucosamine > quercetin > myricetin.
- Order of activity against single receptor binding domain of spike glycoprotein (6vsb) of SARS-CoV–2 is EGCG > genistein > myricetin > quercetin > curcumin > diadzein
- Order of activity against NSP15 endoribonuclease (6vww) of SARS-CoV–2 is EGCG > curcumin > genistein > beta-glucan > myricetin
- Order of activity against post fusion core S2 subunit (6lxt) of SARS-CoV–2is EGCG > myricetin > quercetin > genistein > curcumin
- Order of activity against free enzyme of (6y2e) of SARS-CoV–2 main protease is EGCG > curcumin > apigenin > myricetin > beta-glucan
We, thus, found EGCG, curcumin, myricetin, genistein, myricetin, beta-glucan, quercetin and diadzein as recommended compounds for the treatment of COVID–19 (figure 3). Finally, as a result of our study, we have discovered EGCG as potent SARS-CoV–2 inhibitor which might be a drug candidate in future to treat this dreadful disease
Diet Suggestions
In light of current findings, intake of the suggested foods (Table 4) as supplements in adequate doses could be helpful to prevent and control COVID–19 infection by suppression of propagation and pathogenesis of SARS-CoV–2.Since green tea is a rich source of EGCG, it may have a major role in combating the SARS-CoV–2. Our careful and extensive analysis revealed that other promising molecules that can be easily available to us, might also be expected to suppress the pathogenicity of this coronavirus. It might be helpful to include the suggested food substances in the diet of COVID 19 patients and healthcare workers to control and avoid the infection. Doing so may also prevent secondary infections, since these compounds have previously been reported to have antimicrobial activity. Hence, these dietary suggestions may also be implemented in case of influenza and common flu.
Table 4: Daily dose based diet suggestion for prevention and treatment of COVID-19
|
Dietary Molecules (DM) |
Recommen- dedDaily Intake |
Amount of DM present in Food Source (per 100g) |
Suggested Dose of Food Source Per Day (gm) |
t1/2(h) |
Suggested Frequency |
Suggested Preparation |
|
EGCG |
800 mg |
7.38 gin Green Tea |
16.67* |
4.5 |
3-4 times a day after every 4.5 h |
Brewed for 3 minutes in boiling water |
|
Curcumin |
500 mg |
3.2 gin Turmeric |
15.625 |
6-7 |
3 times a day every 6.5 h |
Mix with lukewarm milk |
|
Apigenin |
3-10 mg |
1.2 gin Chamomile Tea |
1.08** |
12 |
2 times a day every 12 h |
Brewed for 5-10 minutes in boiling water |
|
300 mg in Parsley |
2.16 |
|||||
|
Beta Glucan |
3-10 g |
5.5 g in Whole Grain Oats# |
118.18 |
19.5- 27.3 |
Once a day |
Boil in water or milk |
|
11 g in Whole Grain Barley## |
59 |
#average based on range 3-8%; ##average based on range 2-20%; *assuming 65% yield; **assuming 50% yield. All values of dietary molecules are taken from USDA databases ( https://doi.org/10.15482/USDA.ADC/1178142)
In concluding remark, COVID–19 has become a global health concern. Causalities are increasing day by day throughout the globe. Researchers and medical practitioners are unable to search out new therapeutic agents so far to treat this disease except some already FDA-approved drugs which act on the main protease of SARS-CoV. Thus, the aim of our study was to screen the antiviral and anti-SARS dietary molecules that are easily available with the help of computational methods. For this, we screened 18 bioactive dietary molecules by molecular docking study against recently released proteins of SARS-CoV–2. We have taken two drugs remdesvir and chloroquine to comparethe computed activity of selected dietary molecules. Among them, EGCG, curcumin, myricetin, genistein, myricetin, beta-glucan, quercetin and diadzein were found as active agents against COVID–19.EGCG exhibited the strongest molecular interactions within pockets at active sites of all the proteins of SARS-CoV–2 which were taken under this study. EGCG was also far more active than the standard drugs remdesvir and chloroquine. Therefore, in our study we suggest EGCG as a potential inhibitor of SARS-CoV–2. However, further research is needed to investigate the mechanism and mode of action of these phytochemicals in future.
Conflict of interests
The author(s) declared no conflict of interest
Acknowledgements
We are highly thankful to all authors, metabolic team members, dieticians and management team of Era’s Lucknow Medical College, Era University, Lucknow, India and American University of Barbados (AUB) for their assistance during this work.
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Juha
commented on 30 March, 2020
I appreciate your approach. Traditional chinese medicines contains several plant derived compounds capable blocking the entry of CoV into the cells. FDA approval would be the key hurdle to get these medicines to the people in need urgently.
Moderated
Dr M Faheem Khan
replied on 05 April, 2020
Thanks for your valuable appreciation
Moderated
Comment moderated
on 01 April, 2020
Ron Brightmore
commented on 02 April, 2020
An excellent article. Have you seen the product Capsol-T which combines EGCG and capsaicin in a highly synergistic mixture? [researched by DR James Morre]. EGCG has also been shown to inhibit furin, inhibit the transport of furin to the cell membrane by a HIF-1 mechanism, potentially inhibit the thiol/disulide mechanism vital for COVID-19 spike entry and fusion, also inhibit caspase 1 which activates IL-1B cascade which has been managed by the COVID-19 E protein and inhibit angiotensin 2 which is set free by the COVI-19 interaction with ACE2 [angiotensin 2 will also activate IL-1B and the inflammatory cytokine cascade that attacks the lung cells. As you can see, I am very interested in the potential use of RGCG re this virus and see a potential for a combination in the use of Capsol-T, hydrocloroquine and curcumun, Hydrocchloroquine will act to inhibit the alternative entry mechanism via the endosomes and curcumin acts in a similar way to EGCG in inhibiting angiotensin 2 and activating NRF2 which controls the balance between proteases and antiproteases. I am sorry for that rush of ideas but I am very excited by your article. I can send you copies of e-mails that discuss all the above if you are interested. Thank you for your research Ron
Moderated
Comment moderated
on 05 April, 2020
Dr M Faheem Khan
replied on 05 April, 2020
Thank you so much for appreciation and to give your valuable suggestions. Thanks are also due to providing us a details of other molecules having synergistic effect with EGCG. We will be happy if you share copies of your mails as per discussed by you.
Moderated
Zaw Ali Khan
commented on 05 April, 2020
Thank for your suggestions and encouragement. We'd be interested in reading more about this.
Moderated
Michio Jibiki
commented on 05 April, 2020
I appreciate your screening approach. Japanese green tea is unfermented tea. Therefore, it contains cathecin components a lot. I believed that EGCG is effective for inactivate virus at the upper respiratory tract part due to its feature of easy binding to proteins and early coverage of infectious spikes.
Moderated
Wasif Raza
commented on 06 April, 2020
A great research which could bring about a breakthrough amidst this fulminant pandemic. However, as agreed, more research is needed to establish a guideline. Best wishes.
Moderated
Djoko Agus Purwanto
commented on 06 April, 2020
I really appreciate to this research. Compared to the chloroquine, EGCG is known as a non-toxic compound and has been used in daily drinks for hundreds of years. Therefore EGCG is not only used for the treatment of COVID-19 but also prevention. What is the dose of EGCG needed by adults to prevent corona infection?? Thank you so much for your attention.
Moderated
Comment moderated
on 07 April, 2020
Comment moderated
on 07 April, 2020
Tukaram Pandharipande
commented on 12 April, 2020
The findings are very interesting and looks promising in the current situation of Covid19. However, the article do not have information about the grade or specification of EGCG and Curcumin used in the investigations. I request if you can send me some information about the grades/ specifications of EGCG and Curcumin used in the investigations.
Moderated
Comment moderated
on 13 April, 2020
Greg
commented on 17 April, 2020
EGCG is also a zinc ionophore like Quercetin and chloroquine analogues. Zinc gluconate, as a lozenge/powder ever 4 hours 15mg, should be combined with EGCG /Quercetin for maximal effect. Many modes of action, combination therapies usually more effective than single molecule interventions.
Comment moderated
on 20 April, 2020
Comment moderated
on 19 April, 2020
Hiroyuki Shibata
commented on 02 May, 2020
Thank you Drs. It's a very encouraging data. I know the death rate in India is 0.83/ 1,000,000 peoples, while in Italy, 462.56/1,000,000. We have developed new curcumin analogs, such as GO-Y030 and GO-Y022, published elsewhere. They have more potent activities. We want to check the possibility of them. GO-Y022 is a natural ingredient. Best regards.
Comment moderated
on 03 May, 2020
Comment moderated
on 03 May, 2020
Comment moderated
on 03 May, 2020
Comment moderated
on 03 May, 2020
Germán Gutierrez
commented on 28 May, 2020
Thank you the EGCG ACE2 interaction and zinc plus vitamin d. Sinergies with cafein
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Identification of Dietary Molecules as Therapeutic Agents to Combat COVID-19 Using Molecular Docking Studies
Mohammad Faheem Khan
Era' Lucknow medical College, Era University, Lucknow-226003, India
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ORCiD: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1943-7160
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Recently, a new and fatal strain of coronavirus named as SARS-CoV-2 (Disease: COVID-19) appeared in Wuhan, China in December of 2019. Due to its fast growing human to human transmission and confirmed cases in nearly every country, it has been declared as pandemic by World Health Organisation (WHO) on 11 March 2020. Till now, there is no therapy such as vaccines and specific therapeutic agents available globally. Inspite of this, some protease inhibitors and antiviral agents namely lopinavir, ritonavir, remdisivir and chloroquine are under investigation and also implemented in several countries as therapeutic agents for the treatment of COVID-19. Seeing the health crisis across the world, it was our aim to find out a suitable drug candidate which could target SARS-CoV-2. For this purpose, molecular docking of 7 proteinsof SARS-CoV-2 was done with 18active constituents that have previously been reported to be antiviral or anti-SARS-CoV agents. The docking results of these 18 compounds were compared with 2 FDA approved drugs that have are currently being used in COVID 19, namely Remdesivir and Chloroquine. Our result revealed that among all, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a major constituent of green tea, is the lead compound that could fit well into the binding sites of docked proteins of SARS-CoV-2. EGCG showed very strong molecular interactions with binding energies -9.30, -8.66, -8.38, -7.57, -7.26, -6.99 and -4.90 kcal/mole for6y2e, 6vw1, 6vww, 6lxt,6vsb, 6lu7 and 6lvnproteins of SARS-CoV-2, respectively.Therefore, EGCG as per our results, should be explored as a drug candidate for the treatment of COVID-19.
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
The Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV–2) has emerged as a virus ofgrave concern due to its ability to cause the severe and life-threatening diseasecalledcoronavirus disease 2019 (COVID–19) with high mortality rate worldwide [1]. World Health Organization (WHO) declared COVID–19 as a pandemic disease on 11 March 2020 [2]. As per “situation report–63”released by WHO on 23 March 2020, more than300,000 cases and 14510deaths have been confirmed globally.ByJanuary 12, 2020 the Chinese authorities had released the whole genome sequence of SARS-CoV–2 which has been hallmark for researchers worldwide to quickly identify and develop the potential candidates by using computational methods and other therapeutic techniques [3]. First publication along with other recent studies on current outbreak revealed that SARS-CoV–2 is a member of the coronavirus family and shared 96% similarity with previously identified genome of SARS-CoV that had emerged in China in November, 2002 [4].
Based on recent studies, this virus has a complex genomic organization consisting of single stranded-positive sense RNA which codes for several structural and non-structural proteins (nsps) including envelope protein (E) gene, spike protein (S) gene, membrane protein (M) gene, nucleocapsid protein (N) gene, replicase complex (orf1ab) gene along with 3’ and 5’-untranslated region (UTR) [5, 6]. As per study carried out by K. Anand et al. in 2003, coronaviruses make small polypeptide chains during transcription by proteolytic enzymes such as papain-like protease (PLpro) and 3-chymotrypsin-like protease (3CLpro) to form several types of non-structural proteins which are responsible for viral replication [7]. Additionally, unique spike protein (S) has also been found to have a strong affinity with the human ACE2 receptor [8]. Thus, both main protease and spike protein complexed with human ACE2 receptor might be important targets to discover and develop vaccines and other therapeutic agents to control this new CoV.
Since the first reported case of COVID 19 on 31 December 2019, no specific medication is available to prevent or kill the SARS-CoV–2 so far. Preliminary treatment of COVID–19 depends upon the severity of infection which ranges from mild to strong including, if necessary administration of oxygen, maintaining the body fluids and administration of antibiotics and antiviral drugs to combat co-infections because of numerous types of bacteria and virus [9]. Recent studies suggested the use of remdisivir and chloroquine along with HIV–1 protease inhibitors like lopinavir and ritonavir as therapeutic agents for the treatment of COVID–19 [10]. Moreover, Xu et al. identified four tested drugs nelfinavir, praziquantel, perampanel and pitavestatin as potential candidates against SARS-CoV–2 using computational methods. Therefore, three approaches need to be urgently pursued, namely vaccines, post exposure prophylaxis and therapeutic agents that target virus-encoded functions, replication, infection as well as the respiratory symptoms in humans that exacerbate the disease.
In the last decade, dietary moleculesfrom edible herbs and vegetables have ofgreat interest amongresearchers worldwide because of their diversified and complex structures having health benefits with no or minimal side-effects [11]. These dietary molecules may be developed as herbal medicines or therapeutic agents in the prevention and treatment of current COVID–19 disease. In previous studies, numerous dietary molecules such as curcumin, savinin and betulinic acid have been found to show inhibition of SARS-CoV in the range of 3–10 μM concentrations [12]. Recently, kaempferol, quercetin, luteolin–7-glucoside, demethoxycurcumin, naringenin, apigenin–7-glucoside, oleuropein, curcumin, catechin, and epicatechin-gallate have been identified as significant anti-COVID–19 agents with the help of molecular docking study [13]. Seeing this terrible and deadly crisis, as yet, it is urgent and timely need to evaluate and develop more potent and reliable anti-COVID–19agents which are easy to reach us. In this study, we evaluated 18 dietary moleculesnamely epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), piperine, apigenin, curcumin, gingerol-[6], beta glucan, resveratrol, myricetin, quercetin, genistein, diadzein, alliin, allicin, sulphoraphane, phycocyanobillin, ferulic acid and alpha lipoic acid by using molecular docking study. Our findings will provide valuable information to explore and develop dietary moleculesas novel anti-COVID–19 agents in the future.
To obtain molecular interactions of selected dietary molecules with the binding pockets of different types of proteins of COVID–19, molecular docking analysis was carried out by using computer cluster system provided by Gigabyte Technology co., LTD, model-B365M DS3H running Intel Core i5–9400F CPU @2.90GHz Processor, 16 GB RAM, 1TB hard disk, and Intel HD Graphic card. The crystal structures of seven types of newly released proteins of COVID–19 were retrieved from protein data bank (PDB) site whose PDB IDs were 6lu7, 6lvn, 6lxt, 6vsb, 6vw1, 6vww and 6y2e.Prior to docking study, the retrieval of target protein binding sites was necessary to find the best docking result. Binding site retrieval was performed with the help of Discovery Studio 3.0 Visualizer by removing Hetatm and adding hydrogen atom to the protein. The top binding sites were used for the docking analysis. The chemical structures of selected dietary moleculesand reference drugs were retrieved from the PubChem site with their PubChem IDs: 650336, 87310, 5280443, 439262, 969516, 5281708, 65064, 445858, 5280961, 442793, 18897, 6112, 5281672, 5460417, 638024, 5280343, 445154, 5350, 121304016 and 2719. The geometries of all compounds were optimized with Discovery Studio 3.0 visualizerby using clean geometry option and applied the Dreiding force field on ligand molecule.The preparation of target proteins was performed on AutoDock tool 4.2.6, by addition of polar hydrogen atoms and Kollman charges and their PDBQT files were saved. Ligand preparation was done by detecting root, set number of torsion and aromaticity criterion. Preparation of grid mapsfor each protein was performed by inputting binding site coordinates which were retrieved by Discovery Studio 3.0 visualizer and Grid Box X, Y, and Z dimensions changed from default to 50×50×50. Docking was performed by Lamarckian genetic algorithm and empirical scoring function by using flexible method.Alldocking results were analyzed with the help of AD4 analyze option to find out the binding energy (BE) and inhibitory constant (Ki) of the ligand with a particular target protein. Visualization of structural complex of ligand and protein was done with the help of Discovery Studio 3.0 Client [14, 15].
In the light of recent pandemic situation, there are two questions raised: first of which protein molecule of SARS-CoV–2 is responsible for their high virulence and replication processeswhile second is that which therapeutic agent can prevent or kill the SARS-CoV–2. For the answer of the first question, we searched the literatureand found out recently released structural and non-structural proteins of SARS-CoV–2 which are structured and repositioned on Protein Data Bank (PDB) site (https://www.rcsb.org/). Thus, based on database of PDB, we have selected seven different types of protein macromolecules which play a pivotal role in propagating the SARS-CoV–2 (table 1). Our intriguing protein targets include main protease covid–19 (6lu7), structure of the 2019-nCoV HR2 Domain (6lvn), structure of post fusion core of 2019-nCoV S2 subunit (6lxt), prefusion 2019-nCoV spike glycoprotein (6vsb), structure of 2019-nCoV chimeric receptor-binding domain complexed with its receptor human ACE2 (6vw1), crystal structure of NSP15 endoribonuclease from SARS CoV–2 (6vww) and crystal structure of the free enzyme of the SARS-CoV–2 (2019-nCoV) main protease (6y2e).
Due to technical limitations, Table 1 is provided in the Supplementary Files section.
In search of the answer for the second question, we selected 18 dietary molecules namely allicin, alliin, apigenin, beta-glucan, curcumin, diadzein, EGCG, ferullic acid, genistein, gingerol-[6], glucosamine, alpha-lipoic acid, myricetin, phycocyanobillin, piperine, quercetin, resveratrol andsulphoraphanethat are abundantly present in commonly used herbs, spices, fruits and vegetables. All the dietary moleculesexhibited either antiviral or anti-SARS-CoV activities as reported in previous studies (table 2).Recent studies revealed that some drugs like remdisivir, chloroquine, lopinavir and ritonavir could be repurposed and studied to treat COVID–19. All these dietary molecules as well as selected drugs remdisivir and chloroquine as control to verify and compare our results were docked against SARS-CoV–2 3CL homology model. Based on our docking analysis, we recommend that theligands with the highest binding affinity and lowest inhibition constant be considered for further investigation.
Due to technical limitations, Table2 is provided in the Supplementary Files section.
Among these dietary molecules, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) which is found abundantly in green tea, was found as most active agent against COVID–19. EGCG showed highest binding affinity (–9.30kcal/mole) and lowest inhibition constant (0.152µM) for 6y2e protein. Moreover, EGCG exhibited a strong molecular interaction with 6vw1 which is an important target of this new CoV. It showed highest binding affinity and lowest inhibition constant with –8.66 kcal/mole and 0.152µM values respectively. Further, EGCG displayed excellent interactions with 6vww wherein it showed highest binding affinity (–8.38 kcal/mole) with lowest inhibition constant at 0.724 µM concentration. Additionally, EGCG also exhibited good molecular interactions with SARS-CoV–2 proteins 6lu7, 6lvn, 6lxt, and 6vsb with the values of binding energies and inhibition constant as –6.99, –4.90, –7.57, –7.26 kcal/mole and 7.57, 255.95, 2.84, 4.75 µM concentrations. The computed activity of EGCG was found to be higher than that of both reference drugs, Remdesivir and Chloroquine. All docked poses are depicted in figure 1 and 2 which showstrong interactions of EGCG with selected protein residues.
It has been established that the molecules having hydroxyl (-OH) and carbonyl (C = O) functionalities showed strong intermolecular interactions with amino acid residues at active sites of proteins through physical forces such as hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic bonds. Due to amount and types of these intermolecular interactions, they show druggable and druglikeness properties. In this study, we also identified eight more active phytochemicals namely curcumin, apigenin, beta-glucan, myricetin, piperine, genistein, diadzein and quercetin. Apigenin, myricetin, and quercetin are flavonoids while genistein and diadzein are isoflavonoids. On the other hand curcumin and piperineare phenolic compounds whereas beta-glucan is a polymer of sugar. They all have hydroxyl (-OH) and carbonyl (C = O) functionalitiesin their core structures and hence exhibited strong molecular interaction with all protein macromolecules chosen under this study. All values of binding affinities and inhibition constant of these dietary molecules are listed in table 3.
Table 3: Molecular docking values of phytochemicals against target protein macromolecules
|
Phytochemicals |
Targets Proteins; binding energy in kcal/mole (inhibition constant in µM) |
|
|
|
||||
|
|
|
6lu7 |
6lvn |
6lxt |
6vsb |
6vw1 |
6vww |
6y2e |
|
1 |
EGCG |
-6.99 (7.57) |
-4.90 (255.95) |
-7.57 (2.84) |
-7.26 (4.75) |
-8.66 (0.451) |
-8.38 (0.724) |
-9.30 (0.152) |
|
2 |
Curcumin |
-6.04 (37.57) |
-4.73 (340.89) |
-5.50 (92.90) |
-5.05 (197.96) |
-7.13 (5.91) |
-7.37 (3.96) |
-7.39 (3.83) |
|
3 |
Apigenin |
-5.96 (43.03) |
-3.71 (1.9x10-5) |
-5.13 (1.74x10-5) |
-5.98 (4.1x10-5) |
-6.02 (38.69) |
-6.48 (17.86) |
-7.05 (6.76) |
|
4 |
Beta Glucan |
-5.96 (42.79) |
-4.16 (889.95) |
-5.06 (195.39) |
-3.20 (4.4x10-5) |
-6.44 (19.09) |
-6.72 (11.86) |
-7.05 (6.83) |
|
5 |
Myricetin |
-5.38 (114.10) |
-3.70 (1.96x10-5) |
-5.74 (62.01) |
-6.14 (31.32) |
-6.50 (17.16) |
-6.57 (15.20) |
-7.15 (5.79) |
|
6 |
Quercetin |
-5.29 (132.27) |
-3.68 (2.02x10-5) |
-5.73 (63.52) |
-6.14 (31.32) |
-6.59 (14.73) |
-6.53 (16.36) |
-6.77 (10.86) |
|
7 |
Piperine |
-5.16 (165.72) |
-4.08 (1.02x10-5) |
-5.40 (109.87) |
-6.05 (36.85) |
-5.64 (73.80) |
-6.18 (29.44) |
-6.40 (20.37) |
|
8 |
Genistein |
-5.03 (204.91) |
-3.97 (1.24x10-5) |
-5.68 (69.09) |
-6.54 (16.04) |
-6.35 (22.18) |
-6.73 (11.70 ) |
-6.80 (10.32) |
|
9 |
Diadzein |
-4.86 (275.53) |
-3.72 (1.89x10-5) |
-5.21 (151.77) |
-6.16 (30.34) |
-5.96 (42.54) |
-6.43 (19.50) |
-6.05 (36.86) |
|
10 |
Ferulic acid |
-4.76 (322.26) |
-2.79 (9.00x10-5) |
-3.75 (1.80 x10-5) |
-5.44 (103.05) |
-3.74 (1.8x10-5) |
-3.90 (1.3 x10-5) |
-4.71 (355.68) |
|
11 |
Alliin |
-4.66 (385.74) |
-3.90 (1.37x10-5) |
-5.02 (210.26) |
-4.57 (447.67) |
-5.15 (168.32) |
-4.07 (1.0 x10-5) |
-5.68 (68.09) |
|
12 |
Lipoic acid |
-4.58 (439.80) |
-1.90 (40.6x10-5) |
-3.25 (4.16x10-5) |
-4.93 (243.60) |
-2.73 (9.9x10-5) |
-3.38 (3.3 x10-5) |
-3.59 (2.3x10-5) |
|
13 |
Resveratrol |
-4.20 (832.91) |
-3.58 (2.38x10-5) |
-4.32 (685.04) |
-5.57 (82.09) |
-5.26 (138.32) |
-5.57 (83.02) |
-5.54 (86.98) |
|
14 |
Glucosamine |
-4.06 (1.06x10-5) |
-3.59 (2.32x10-5) |
-5.26 (138.93) |
-4.89 (262.36) |
-6.77 (10.89) |
-4.18 (862.43) |
-4.70 (359.49) |
|
15 |
Gingerol-[6] |
-4.00 (1.16) |
-2.23 (23.38) |
-3.08 (50.56) |
-4.46 (537.58) |
-4.60 (425.87) |
-4.57 (449.30) |
-5.30 (130.87) |
|
16 |
Sulforaphane |
-3.74 (1.81x10-5) |
-2.25 (22.3x10-5) |
-3.11 (5.22x10-5) |
-3.43 (3.0x10-5) |
-3.46 (2.9x10-5) |
-3.21 (4.4x10-5) |
-4.21 (815.35) |
|
17 |
Allicin |
-3.46 (2.89x10-5) |
-2.09 (29.4x10-5) |
-3.20 (4.49x10-5) |
-3.46 (2.92) |
-3.07 (5.6x10-5) |
-3.14 (5.0x10-5) |
-3.63 (2.1x10-5) |
|
18 |
PCB |
+0.16, (Nil) |
-3.12 (5.14x10-5) |
-4.63 (4.05x10-5) |
+11.3 (Nil) |
-3.59 (2.3x10-5) |
-6.14 (3.1x10-5) |
-5.15 (1.6x10-5) |
|
19 |
Remdesvir |
-2.47 (15.4x10-5) |
-2.68 (10.7x10-5) |
-4.84 (281.48) |
-4.27 (745.64) |
-5.27 (136.97) |
-5.10 (183.96) |
-5.47 (97.23) |
|
20 |
Chloroquine |
-3.62 (2.2x10-5) |
-3.26 (4.0x10-5) |
-4.35 (651.5) |
-4.79 (309.3) |
-6.41 (19.9) |
-4.85 (277.5) |
-6.10 (33.5) |
6lu7: Main protease of covid-19; 6lvn: Structure of the 2019-nCoV-HR2 Domain; 6lxt: Structure of post fusion core of 2019-nCoV S2 subunit; 6vsb: Prefusion 2019-nCoV spike glycoprotein; 6vw1: Structure of 2019-nCoV chimeric receptor-binding domain complexed with its receptor human ACE2; 6vww: Crystal structure of NSP15 endoribonuclease from SARS CoV-2; 6y2e: Crystal structure of the free enzyme of the SARS-CoV-2 (2019-nCoV) main protease. Remdesvir and Chloroquine are used as standard drugs to compare our results; EGCG: Epigallocatechin gallate; PCB: Phycocyanobillin
From docking results as well as analysis of binding affinity with binding pockets within active sites of proteins, we prepared a decreasing order of their potency against SARS-CoV–2.
- Orderof activityagainst main protease (6lu7) of SARS-CoV–2is EGCG > curcumin > apigenin > beta-glucan > myricetin
- Order of activity against HR2 domain of spike glycoprotein (6lvn) of SARS-CoV–2is EGCG > curcumin > beta-glucan > piperine > genistein.
- Order of activity against chimeric receptor-binding domain of spike glycoprotein (6vw1) of SARS-CoV–2 is EGCG > curcumin > glucosamine > quercetin > myricetin.
- Order of activity against single receptor binding domain of spike glycoprotein (6vsb) of SARS-CoV–2 is EGCG > genistein > myricetin > quercetin > curcumin > diadzein
- Order of activity against NSP15 endoribonuclease (6vww) of SARS-CoV–2 is EGCG > curcumin > genistein > beta-glucan > myricetin
- Order of activity against post fusion core S2 subunit (6lxt) of SARS-CoV–2is EGCG > myricetin > quercetin > genistein > curcumin
- Order of activity against free enzyme of (6y2e) of SARS-CoV–2 main protease is EGCG > curcumin > apigenin > myricetin > beta-glucan
We, thus, found EGCG, curcumin, myricetin, genistein, myricetin, beta-glucan, quercetin and diadzein as recommended compounds for the treatment of COVID–19 (figure 3). Finally, as a result of our study, we have discovered EGCG as potent SARS-CoV–2 inhibitor which might be a drug candidate in future to treat this dreadful disease
Diet Suggestions
In light of current findings, intake of the suggested foods (Table 4) as supplements in adequate doses could be helpful to prevent and control COVID–19 infection by suppression of propagation and pathogenesis of SARS-CoV–2.Since green tea is a rich source of EGCG, it may have a major role in combating the SARS-CoV–2. Our careful and extensive analysis revealed that other promising molecules that can be easily available to us, might also be expected to suppress the pathogenicity of this coronavirus. It might be helpful to include the suggested food substances in the diet of COVID 19 patients and healthcare workers to control and avoid the infection. Doing so may also prevent secondary infections, since these compounds have previously been reported to have antimicrobial activity. Hence, these dietary suggestions may also be implemented in case of influenza and common flu.
Table 4: Daily dose based diet suggestion for prevention and treatment of COVID-19
|
Dietary Molecules (DM) |
Recommen- dedDaily Intake |
Amount of DM present in Food Source (per 100g) |
Suggested Dose of Food Source Per Day (gm) |
t1/2(h) |
Suggested Frequency |
Suggested Preparation |
|
EGCG |
800 mg |
7.38 gin Green Tea |
16.67* |
4.5 |
3-4 times a day after every 4.5 h |
Brewed for 3 minutes in boiling water |
|
Curcumin |
500 mg |
3.2 gin Turmeric |
15.625 |
6-7 |
3 times a day every 6.5 h |
Mix with lukewarm milk |
|
Apigenin |
3-10 mg |
1.2 gin Chamomile Tea |
1.08** |
12 |
2 times a day every 12 h |
Brewed for 5-10 minutes in boiling water |
|
300 mg in Parsley |
2.16 |
|||||
|
Beta Glucan |
3-10 g |
5.5 g in Whole Grain Oats# |
118.18 |
19.5- 27.3 |
Once a day |
Boil in water or milk |
|
11 g in Whole Grain Barley## |
59 |
#average based on range 3-8%; ##average based on range 2-20%; *assuming 65% yield; **assuming 50% yield. All values of dietary molecules are taken from USDA databases ( https://doi.org/10.15482/USDA.ADC/1178142)
In concluding remark, COVID–19 has become a global health concern. Causalities are increasing day by day throughout the globe. Researchers and medical practitioners are unable to search out new therapeutic agents so far to treat this disease except some already FDA-approved drugs which act on the main protease of SARS-CoV. Thus, the aim of our study was to screen the antiviral and anti-SARS dietary molecules that are easily available with the help of computational methods. For this, we screened 18 bioactive dietary molecules by molecular docking study against recently released proteins of SARS-CoV–2. We have taken two drugs remdesvir and chloroquine to comparethe computed activity of selected dietary molecules. Among them, EGCG, curcumin, myricetin, genistein, myricetin, beta-glucan, quercetin and diadzein were found as active agents against COVID–19.EGCG exhibited the strongest molecular interactions within pockets at active sites of all the proteins of SARS-CoV–2 which were taken under this study. EGCG was also far more active than the standard drugs remdesvir and chloroquine. Therefore, in our study we suggest EGCG as a potential inhibitor of SARS-CoV–2. However, further research is needed to investigate the mechanism and mode of action of these phytochemicals in future.
Conflict of interests
The author(s) declared no conflict of interest
Acknowledgements
We are highly thankful to all authors, metabolic team members, dieticians and management team of Era’s Lucknow Medical College, Era University, Lucknow, India and American University of Barbados (AUB) for their assistance during this work.
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Juha
commented on 30 March, 2020
I appreciate your approach. Traditional chinese medicines contains several plant derived compounds capable blocking the entry of CoV into the cells. FDA approval would be the key hurdle to get these medicines to the people in need urgently.
Moderated
Dr M Faheem Khan
replied on 05 April, 2020
Thanks for your valuable appreciation
Moderated
Comment moderated
on 01 April, 2020
Ron Brightmore
commented on 02 April, 2020
An excellent article. Have you seen the product Capsol-T which combines EGCG and capsaicin in a highly synergistic mixture? [researched by DR James Morre]. EGCG has also been shown to inhibit furin, inhibit the transport of furin to the cell membrane by a HIF-1 mechanism, potentially inhibit the thiol/disulide mechanism vital for COVID-19 spike entry and fusion, also inhibit caspase 1 which activates IL-1B cascade which has been managed by the COVID-19 E protein and inhibit angiotensin 2 which is set free by the COVI-19 interaction with ACE2 [angiotensin 2 will also activate IL-1B and the inflammatory cytokine cascade that attacks the lung cells. As you can see, I am very interested in the potential use of RGCG re this virus and see a potential for a combination in the use of Capsol-T, hydrocloroquine and curcumun, Hydrocchloroquine will act to inhibit the alternative entry mechanism via the endosomes and curcumin acts in a similar way to EGCG in inhibiting angiotensin 2 and activating NRF2 which controls the balance between proteases and antiproteases. I am sorry for that rush of ideas but I am very excited by your article. I can send you copies of e-mails that discuss all the above if you are interested. Thank you for your research Ron
Moderated
Comment moderated
on 05 April, 2020
Dr M Faheem Khan
replied on 05 April, 2020
Thank you so much for appreciation and to give your valuable suggestions. Thanks are also due to providing us a details of other molecules having synergistic effect with EGCG. We will be happy if you share copies of your mails as per discussed by you.
Moderated
Zaw Ali Khan
commented on 05 April, 2020
Thank for your suggestions and encouragement. We'd be interested in reading more about this.
Moderated
Michio Jibiki
commented on 05 April, 2020
I appreciate your screening approach. Japanese green tea is unfermented tea. Therefore, it contains cathecin components a lot. I believed that EGCG is effective for inactivate virus at the upper respiratory tract part due to its feature of easy binding to proteins and early coverage of infectious spikes.
Moderated
Wasif Raza
commented on 06 April, 2020
A great research which could bring about a breakthrough amidst this fulminant pandemic. However, as agreed, more research is needed to establish a guideline. Best wishes.
Moderated
Djoko Agus Purwanto
commented on 06 April, 2020
I really appreciate to this research. Compared to the chloroquine, EGCG is known as a non-toxic compound and has been used in daily drinks for hundreds of years. Therefore EGCG is not only used for the treatment of COVID-19 but also prevention. What is the dose of EGCG needed by adults to prevent corona infection?? Thank you so much for your attention.
Moderated
Comment moderated
on 07 April, 2020
Comment moderated
on 07 April, 2020
Tukaram Pandharipande
commented on 12 April, 2020
The findings are very interesting and looks promising in the current situation of Covid19. However, the article do not have information about the grade or specification of EGCG and Curcumin used in the investigations. I request if you can send me some information about the grades/ specifications of EGCG and Curcumin used in the investigations.
Moderated
Comment moderated
on 13 April, 2020
Greg
commented on 17 April, 2020
EGCG is also a zinc ionophore like Quercetin and chloroquine analogues. Zinc gluconate, as a lozenge/powder ever 4 hours 15mg, should be combined with EGCG /Quercetin for maximal effect. Many modes of action, combination therapies usually more effective than single molecule interventions.
Comment moderated
on 20 April, 2020
Comment moderated
on 19 April, 2020
Hiroyuki Shibata
commented on 02 May, 2020
Thank you Drs. It's a very encouraging data. I know the death rate in India is 0.83/ 1,000,000 peoples, while in Italy, 462.56/1,000,000. We have developed new curcumin analogs, such as GO-Y030 and GO-Y022, published elsewhere. They have more potent activities. We want to check the possibility of them. GO-Y022 is a natural ingredient. Best regards.
Comment moderated
on 03 May, 2020
Comment moderated
on 03 May, 2020
Comment moderated
on 03 May, 2020
Comment moderated
on 03 May, 2020
Germán Gutierrez
commented on 28 May, 2020
Thank you the EGCG ACE2 interaction and zinc plus vitamin d. Sinergies with cafein