Bioactive Compounds from Purslane (Portulaca oleracea L.) and Star Anise (Illicium verum Hook) as SARS-CoV-2 Antiviral Agent via Dual Inhibitor Mechanism: In Silico Approach

Abstract

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) causes the COVID-19 pandemic that infects humans and attacks the body's immune system. The purpose of the study was to identify the potential of bioactive compounds in purslane (Portulaca oleracea L.) and star anise (Illicium verum Hook) via a dual inhibitor mechanism against SARS-CoV-2 proteases with an in silico approach. The samples were obtained from PubChem and RSCB PDB. Antivirus probability prediction was performed on PASS Online. Virtual screening was performed with PyRx via molecular docking. Visualization was used by PyMol and Discovery Studio. Compounds with the best antiviral potential are indicated by the low binding affinity value to the target proteins, namely SARS-CoV-2 TMPRSS2 and PLpro. The results showed that purslane luteolin has the best antiviral potential. However, further studies are required to validate this computational prediction.