Inhibition of norovirus replication by the nucleoside analogue 2′-C-methylcytidine

► A panel of reference antiviral molecules was screened against norovirus. ► 2′-C-methylcytidine (2CMC) was identified as an inhibitor of the replication of (murine) norovirus. ► 2CMC inhibits virus-induced CPE formation, the production of infectious viruses and viral RNA synthesis. ► The antiviral effect coincides with the onset of viral RNA synthesis, suggesting the viral polymerase as target. ► When combined with ribavirin a marked antagonistic activity is observed.