In vitro anti-influenza potential of glyceroglycolipids from cyanobacteria Limnospira fusiformis

Abstract

Previously, a chemical standardization method quantifying six fatty acids was established for Limnospira (formerly Arthrospira) authenticity and quality control. Since glyceroglycolipids constitute a significant source of fatty acids in Limnospira, a targeted phytochemical investigation was performed that resulted in the identification of two novel diacylated glycerol sulfoquinvosides and four known compounds. Notably, in vitro anti-influenza activity of isolated and analogous glyceroglycolipids, specifically two glyceroglycolipids, incorporating γ-linolenic acid and sulfoquinvose units tethered to a glycerol backbone, exhibited the highest anti-influenza activity. These findings suggest that the glyceroglycolipid-enriched fraction from Limnospira holds the potential for direct-acting antiviral properties.