Herpes Simplex Virus Type-1 Attachment Inhibition by Functionalized Graphene Oxide

TLDR

Graphene oxide and its derivatives have recently attracted attention in bioscience and biotechnology. The study aims to evaluate graphene oxide derivatives as inhibitors of HSV‑1 infection by competing with the viral receptor heparan sulfate. GO derivatives mimic heparan sulfate and bind HSV‑1, thereby blocking viral attachment. The inhibition does not affect cell‑to‑cell spreading; media composition significantly influences the nanomaterials’ antiviral activity; and the derivatives exhibit no cytotoxicity, indicating promise for antiviral surfaces and diagnostics.

Abstract

Graphene oxide and its derivatives have lately been the subject of increased attention in the field of bioscience and biotechnology. In this article, we report on the use of graphene oxide (GO) derivatives to inhibit herpes simplex virus type-1 (HSV-1) infections, mimicking the cell surface receptor heparan sulfate, and the GO derivatives compete with the latter in binding HSV-1. The inhibition does not affect cell-to-cell spreading. Media content has a significant effect on the inhibition properties of the nanomaterials. These have no cytotoxic effect, suggesting that this is a promising approach for the development of antiviral surfaces and for diagnostic purposes.