Antiviral activity of formyl peptide receptor 2 antagonists against influenza viruses

•FPR2 antagonists PBP10 and BOC2 inhibit influenza A and B virus replication.•The antiviral effect of Oseltamivir used in combination with FPR2 antagonist is additive.•PBP10 and BOC2 act antiviral through ERK activation.

Influenza viruses are one of the most important respiratory pathogens worldwide, causing both epidemic and pandemic infections. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of FPR2 antagonists PBP10 and BOC2 on influenza virus replication. We determined that these molecules exhibit antiviral effects against influenza A (H1N1, H3N2, H6N2) and B viruses. FPR2 antagonists used in combination with oseltamivir showed additive antiviral effects. Mechanistically, the antiviral effect of PBP10 and BOC2 is mediated through early inhibition of virus-induced ERK activation. Finally, our preclinical studies showed that FPR2 antagonists protected mice from lethal infections induced by influenza, both in a prophylactic and therapeutic manner. Thus, FPR2 antagonists might be explored for novel treatments against influenza.