In vitro anti-influenza screening of several Euphorbiaceae species: Structure of a bioactive Cyanoglucoside from Codiaeum variegatum

A bio-guided screening against influenza A virus (FLUAV) was carried out with seven Euphorbiaceae species. The results showed that Phyllantus niruri, Euphorbia pulcherrima and Codiaeum variegatum fractions have relevant anti-FLUAV activity, although only chromatographical subfractions from C. variegatum retained the activity. From this plant an active cyanoglycoside against FLUAV was isolated which displayed virucidal activity without impairment of the haemagglutination properties of the virus strain used. This is the first report indicating antiviral activity of a cyanoglucoside.