Anti-viral Activity Of Quillaja saponaria Molina Extracts Against HIV-1 And HIV-2

It has been well established that extracts from the bark of the South American tree Quillaja saponaria Molina have the capacity to stimulate strong immune responses against exogenous antigen when used as an adjuvant. However, the anti-viral capacity of Q. saponins has not been well established. We document the anti-viral capacity of Quillaja saponaria extracts against HIV-1 and HIV-2. The extract appeared to interact with the gp120 subunit of HIV-1 and HIV-2 to produce a low anti-viral effect by blocking viral attachment. The extract was also observed to coat cells in a time dependent manner and block attachment to CD4 receptors. Furthermore, no lasting protection was conferred when cells were pre-treated, and the extract containing media removed, the cells subsequently could again be infected with HIV-1 and HIV-2.