Evaluation the Effect of the Ethanolic Extract of Satureja sahandica by Montmorillonite Nanoparticles on SARS-CoV2 in Cell Culture by RT-PCR

Background and Aim

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the urgent need for effective antiviral therapies. Satureja sahandica, a medicinal herb, is known for its antimicrobial properties and potential antiviral effects. Additionally, montmorillonite nanoparticles can enhance the bioavailability and efficacy of plant extracts. This study aims to evaluate the combined effect of ethanolic extract of Satureja sahandica and montmorillonite nanoparticles on SARS-CoV-2 in cell cultures, utilizing Real-Time PCR (RT-PCR) to assess their antiviral activity.

Materials and Methods

RNA extraction was performed, and samples with low Cycle Threshold (CT) values were used to infect the Vero cell line. Infected cells were subsequently treated with various concentrations of the ethanolic extract Satureja sahandica, and cell viability was assessed using the MTT assay. To evaluate the impact of Satureja sahandica on the COVID-19 virus, gene expression levels were analyzed through RT- PCR.

Results

The results obtained from the MTT test indicate that the Satureja sahandica extract at a concentration of 1019 µg/mL performed better, with a cell viability percentage of 50%. The results indicated that the average CTs in all untreated cells infected with Covid-19 were 27.81, which after treatment with Montmorillonite nanoparticles and Satureja sahandica, the average CT increased to 32.07 (p<0.0001).

Conclusion

The findings of this study suggest that the ethanolic extract of Satureja sahandica, particularly when combined with montmorillonite nanoparticles, may offer a promising therapeutic approach against COVID-19. This research highlights the potential of plant-based extracts in antiviral treatment strategies, warranting further investigation into their mechanisms of action and efficacy in clinical settings.