Tannic acid modulates SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis by curbing key host receptors and oxidative stress

The novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, which wrecked havoc around the world in the recent years through COVID-19, gains entry into the host cell through various receptors. Development of therapies targeting host–pathogen interaction will be a key to curb the infection as it potentially suppresses viral attachment and entry into the host. Boundless bioactives abundant in natural resources are the important source of new as well as safer alternatives. Tannic acid, a polyphenolic compound found abundantly in various plant sources, has gained much attention owing to its multifaceted pharmacological properties. This research paper presents a comprehensive investigation on antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-viral abilities of tannic acid, substantiated through a triad of methodologies: in silico, in vitro and in vivo approaches. In vitro experiments, confirmed the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory efficacy as well as the host receptor modulating potential of tannic acid. In silico docking analyses elucidated the molecular interactions between tannic acid and key host receptors involved in inflammation and viral pathogenesis. Furthermore, the in vivo studies involving Danio rerio provided a holistic understanding of the systemic impact of tannic acid, including its antioxidant effects by mitigating the oxidative stress.