The antiviral activities of two saponins, soyasaponin I and II, isolated from soybean
(Glycine max Merrill) were studied in vitro against herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). Soyasaponin II was more potent than
soyasaponin I as shown by reduction of HSV-1 production. Soyasaponin II was also found
to inhibit the replication of human cytomegalovirus, influenza virus, and human immunodeficiency
virus type 1. The action was not due to inhibition of virus penetration and protein
synthesis, but might involve a virucidal effect. When acyclovir and soyasaponin II
were evaluated in combination for anti-HSV-1 activity, additive antiviral effects
were observed for this virus.
Soyasaponin -
Glycine max
- Fabaceae - antiviral activity - virucidal activity - acyclovir - additive interaction
