Scientists found natural chemicals in a Brazilian tree that can fight the virus that causes COVID‑19. These chemicals are called galloylquinic acids and come from the leaves of Copaifera lucens, a tree that lives in Brazil’s Atlantic Forest. Lab tests show that these molecules stop the virus in several ways, giving a broader attack than many current drugs.
The study was led by Jairo Kenupp Bastos at the University of São Paulo. His team has long examined the chemistry of Copaifera trees, so they chose this species for a deeper look.
Galloylquinic acids are already known to have many health effects. Earlier research linked them to anti‑fungal, anti‑cancer, and antiviral actions. Similar compounds have blocked HIV‑1 in lab tests while causing low toxicity.
Safety Checks and Antiviral Tests
With funding from FAPESP, the researchers first extracted leaf chemicals rich in galloylquinic acids. They then performed cytotoxicity tests to see if the compounds were safe for cells. This step is needed before any antiviral study.
To see how well the chemicals fight the virus, the team used a plaque‑reduction assay. This test measures how many viral particles are neutralized. The results showed clear activity against SARS‑CoV‑2.
The scientists also studied how the compounds interact with key parts of the virus. They looked at the spike protein’s receptor‑binding domain, the papain‑like protease (PLpro) that helps the virus hide from the immune system, and the RNA polymerase needed for viral replication. They also checked the effect on viral protein production.
Mohamed Abdelsalam, a professor of natural product chemistry, led the biological experiments together with Lamiaa A. Al‑Madboly and Rasha M. El‑Morsi. Researchers from Egypt also took part in the work.
Multiple Ways the Compounds Attack the Virus
According to the paper in Scientific Reports, galloylquinic acids work at several stages of the virus’s life cycle. They can block the virus from entering cells, stop its replication, and lower the amount of viral proteins made. The chemicals also seem to calm inflammation and help the immune system, which could be useful in severe COVID‑19 cases.
Bastos says this multi‑target action makes it harder for the virus to become resistant, unlike many drugs that hit only one viral protein.
Future Work and the Importance of Biodiversity
More studies are needed before these chemicals can become medicines. The next steps include animal testing and human clinical trials.
This research shows how valuable natural plants can be for new drugs. It also reminds us that protecting biodiversity, such as Brazil’s rich forest plants, is key to finding future therapies.