A recent study by researchers at our university has unveiled the potential of Philippine crocodile serum as a natural inhibitor of HIV-1 replication. In their innovative research, the team found that the serum significantly inhibits HIV-1 activity during both pre- and post-infection stages, with inhibition rates reaching up to 70%.
Figure 1. (A) The co-culture assay showed relatively increased HIV-1 RT activity at day 21 compared to day 14. (B) Viability of PBMCs exposed to different concentrations of crocodile serum showed no significant cytotoxicity. (C) The % inhibition of crocodile serum pre- and post-infection of HIV-1 in the PBMC culture system at different serum concentration (0.5 and 0.25% v/v). Nevirapine (1250 µg/mL) was used as a positive control with 91.02 ± 3.45% combined inhibitory activity in both pre- and post-infection.
The study utilized a cell culture-based assay to evaluate the serum's effectiveness at concentrations of 0.5% and 0.25% vol/vol. Remarkably, the serum demonstrated dual-action inhibitory properties, disrupting the virus's ability to replicate at multiple stages of its life cycle. These findings suggest that the crocodile serum could be developed into a new class of natural antiviral therapies, potentially offering a novel approach to combatting HIV/AIDS.
This discovery not only underscores the value of exploring natural products for medical applications but also highlights the importance of biodiversity in scientific research. The Philippine crocodile, an endangered species, may now contribute to the advancement of human health through its unique biological properties.
Research Team:
This pioneering study was conducted by Dr. Alfredo A. Hinay, Jr., Nelyn Mae T. Cadotdot, Marilou V. Tablizo, and Aprilyn F. Francisco (College of Medical and Biological Sciences/Graduate School Department/Medical Laboratory Science Department/Science Resource Center, University of the Immaculate Conception, Davao City 8000, Philippines).
Read the full paper here.