A research team in Quebec has identified two plant-based molecules—one extracted from birch bark—that may effectively block dangerous viruses such as HIV, Ebola, dengue, and even SARS-CoV-2. The study, published in Chemistry – A European Journal, suggests a path toward broad-spectrum antiviral prophylactic treatments.
🧪 Bioengineered saponins with powerful antiviral properties
Led by Professor Charles Gauthier of the INRS (National Institute of Scientific Research), the team modified two natural molecules:
- Betulinic acid, found in birch bark and the Chaga mushroom,
- Echinocystic acid, present in sunflowers and other plants.
By attaching a specific sugar (Lewis X), they created new saponins—chimeric compounds with enhanced properties:
- Water-soluble
- Biocompatible
- Safe for human cells
🔒 A mechanism that blocks virus entry
The new saponins bind to a key immune cell receptor that acts as an entry point for multiple viruses. By blocking it, these compounds can inhibit HIV, Ebola, dengue, and COVID-19 infections.
“Our results suggest these saponins show promise for preventing early HIV-1 infection while being relatively non-toxic in vivo,” explains Prof. Gauthier.
🌍 Sustainable use of forest waste
Importantly, betulinic acid is abundant in birch bark, a byproduct of the forestry industry often discarded or burned.
“We could extract these antiviral molecules from waste bark,” says Gauthier. “It’s a sustainable way to turn forest residues into health solutions.”
💡 Future applications: vaccines and beyond
In addition to fighting viruses, saponins could also be used as vaccine adjuvants due to their ability to form micelles or integrate into liposomes—structures that help transport substances through the body.
The researchers are also exploring wild forest fruits from Quebec, some of which may contain new molecules with potential to revolutionize antibiotic treatments.
