Antiviral Activity of the Fruit Extract of Cucumis metuliferus E. Meye (Curcubitaceae) in Chicks

Abstract

Aim of Study: Antiviral property of the alkaloidal components of fruit extract of Cucumis metuliferus E. Meye (100-600 mg/kg) was evaluated in chicks infected with newcastle disease. Materials and Method: The alkaloidal component of the fruit extract was investigated for antiviral properties in chicks. The birds were infected with a virulent strain of newcastle disease virus and the following were examined: physical signs of clinical illness, time of death and histopathological examination of the culprit organs of infection (proventriculus, ventriculus and caecum) and compared with control groups. Results: The result showed that the alkaloids isolated from the plant material were capable of reducing and/or reversing the effects of the virus in chicks. Conclusion: The study showed that the alkaloidal component of this fruit is a potent antiviral agent since it prevented and reversed virus induced manifestations in infected chicks.