Inhibition of RNA Virus Replication in Vitro by 3-Deazacytidine and 3-Deazauridine

Abstract

Investigations conducted on in vitro antiviral activity of 3-deazacytidine and 3-deazauridine indicated that these nucleosides possess significant antiviral activity against rhino 1A, 13 and 56; influenza A and B; parainfluenza 1 (Sendai) and vesicular stomatis viruses. 3-Deazacytidine was found to possess superior antiviral activity against influenza B and Sendai viruses. Preliminary studies performed on the mode of antiviral action showed that the analogs did not have any virucidal property, and exerted their inhibitory action during the viral infective process. The antiviral activity of the two 3-deazapyrimidine nucleosides could be reversed by the corresponding naturally occurring pyrimidine nucleosides.