In vitro Effects of a Novel Silver‑based Complex on Influenza Virus

Objective: To study the mechanism of antiviral activity of a new silver‑based compound of general formula C6H19Ag2N4 LiO6S2 on influenza virus. Materials and Methods: Antiviral properties were investigated on test culture of Madin–Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells with serial tenfold dilutions of the influenza virus. The completeness of viral inactivation was confirmed by determining the virus titer after a double passage of virus‑containing suspension in MDCK cell culture. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction analysis of viral RNA, enzyme immunoassay, and transmission electron microscopy for morphological analysis of influenza virus particles were applied for analysis of viral RNA and effect of substance influence. Results: The results indicate a significant change in the antigenic structure of viral proteins of influenza virus by the silver‑containing complex. The main inactivation mechanism of influenza virus by the action of the silver‑containing complex is associated primarily with the effect on virion protein structure rather than cleavage of the viral RNA. It was revealed that the mechanism for the inactivation of influenza virus is not associated with cleavage of viral RNA corresponding genes M, NS, or nucleoprotein but more probable with changes of the antigen determinants of virion. It was found a significant damaging effect on influenza virus under action of tested substance at concentration higher than 0.4 mM. Conclusion: The novel silver-based complex possesses antiviral properties and could be considered as a prospective antiviral drug.