Polyphenols Sourced from Terrestrial and Marine Plants as Coronavirus Reproduction Inhibitors

Abstract

The review presents the data of recent years concerning the most important modern problem — the search of the new inhibitors of coronaviruses’ reproduction. Polyphenolic compounds (phlorotannins) from terrestrial and marine plants, polyvalent bioregulators with multiple biological activity, are considered as promising compounds of this type. Polyphenols are able to interfere with different stages of coronaviruses’ life cycle. This fact characterizes polyphenols as multipurpose drugs that affect vital proteins of the pathogens. At the same time, the authors of the review draw attention to the fact that many difficulties must be overcome to develop medications based on plant polyphenols, since these compounds are characterized by complex structures, low bioavailability, as well as rapid excretion from the body. In addition, in vivo studies on animals, as well as in clinical trials, are required. Despite all the difficulties, plant polyphenols should eventually the source for creating antiviral medicines, biologically active food additives, and functional food products.