Herpes Simplex Virus type 1 and 2

The relatively new science of antiviral chemotherapy has attracted significant interest in the last 10 years due to the discovery and clinical application of a single molecule, namely the anti-herpes nucleoside analogue acyclic guanosine (Acyclovir). This antiviral agent is used throughout the world, both orally, and as a topical cream. This has led to the production of new potentially antiherpes agents. New anti-herpes compounds are being sought because of potential problems of drug resistance with HSV-1 and HSV-2 and low efficacy of ACV against other viruses in the family including varicellar zoster virus (VZV).

Retroscreen Virology utilises the colorimetric MTT assay test system. This is an established method to evaluate the effect of a drug against a cytopathic virus. In vitro analysis demonstrates any antiviral activity at a range of concentrations of a potential anti-herpes compound. Acyclovir is used as a control for comparison. The antiviral compounds are added to tissue cultures and the cells are then challenged with a known infective dose of HSV-1. Inhibition of viral replication can be monitored by measuring cell viability by the MTT assay.

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