Researchers from Taiwanese universities and Arjil Pharmaceuticals LLC have conducted a study exploring the potential of Anisomeles indica (L.) Kuntze, a medicinal plant with a history in traditional Chinese medicine, in combating COVID-19. The study focused on the link between A. indica and the downregulation of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and transmembrane protease serine 2 (TMPRSS2) expression, which are crucial factors in SARS-CoV-2 infection.
In both in vitro and in vivo experiments, the researchers found promising results. Oral administration of A. indica extract led to a significant reduction in the expression levels of ACE2 and TMPRSS2 in animal models. Similarly, in vitro experiments using human cell lines showed a decrease in ACE2 and TMPRSS2 expression when treated with A. indica extract. Furthermore, specific compounds found in A. indica, such as ovatodiolide, anisomelic acid, and apigenin, also showed efficacy in reducing ACE2 and TMPRSS2 expression in cell lines.
These findings offer hope in the fight against COVID-19. By reducing the levels of ACE2 and TMPRSS2, A. indica and its active compounds could potentially inhibit the entry of SARS-CoV-2 into host cells. Further research is necessary to explore the preventive and therapeutic potential of A. indica and its constituents against COVID-19. The study highlights the promise of natural compounds derived from traditional medicinal plants in mitigating the impact of this global health crisis.