Helena Souza

Ms. Helena Souza


Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

2Years (2025-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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27 April 2025 in Microorganisms
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
HSHelena Souza
Helena Souza
JMJéssica Santa Cruz de Carvalho Martins
Jéssica Santa Cruz de Carvalho Martins
TSThiagos das Chagas Sousa
Thiagos das Chagas Sousa
SSSaiqa Sardar
Saiqa Sardar
NFNatalia Fintelman-Rodrigues
Natalia Fintelman-Rodrigues
AMAline da Rocha Matos
Aline da Rocha Matos
The continuous emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variants underscores the need for novel antiviral candidates. Hypericin (HY), a compound derived from Hypericum perforatum, exhibited potent in vitro activity against SARS-CoV-2 in Vero E6 cells, with low cytotoxicity (CC50 > 200 nM). HY showed no significant activity against Influenza A (H1N1) or dengue virus serotype 2, supporting its selective action. Antiviral effects were most evident when HY was administered post-infection, in a concentration-dependent manner, while cellular pretreatment or viral pre-incubation produced limited effects. Notably, HY also displayed virucidal activity, significantly reducing viral titers at 4 °C, 22 °C, and 37 °C. Combination treatments with remdesivir or nirmatrelvir enhanced antiviral efficacy by 50–70% relative to monotherapy, depending on compound concentration. Molecular simulations revealed stable interactions with conserved residues in RdRp and 3CLpro, suggesting a low risk of resistance. Together, these findings highlight the potential of HY as a selective antiviral and virucidal agent against SARS-CoV-2, particularly in combination regimens.