Mitoxantrone Shows In Vitro, but Not In Vivo Antiviral Activity against Human Respiratory Syncytial Virus

de la Sota, Patricia G.; Lorente, Elena; Notario, Laura; Mir, Carmen; Zaragoza, Oscar; López, Daniel

Human respiratory syncytial virus (HRSV) is the most common cause of severe respiratory infections in infants and young children, often leading to hospitalization. In addition, this virus poses a serious health risk in immunocompromised individuals and the elderly. HRSV is also a major nosocomial hazard in healthcare service units for patients of all ages. Therefore, the development of antiviral treatments against HRSV is a global health priority. In this study, mitoxantrone, a synthetic anthraquinone with previously reported in vitro antiprotozoal and antiviral activities, inhibits HRSV replication in vitro, but not in vivo in a mice model. These results have implications for preclinical studies of some drug candidates.