Potential Antiviral Activity of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum KAU007 against Influenza Virus H1N1

The development of antiviral resistance has exacerbated a growing threat to public health. As a result, there is increasing demand for unconventional antivirals that can effectively replace the presently in-use drugs. Lactic acid-producing bacteria (LAB) are among the most common bacteria used in the food industry. These bacteria play an essential role in the fermentation of many foods and feed. Additionally, these bacteria are considered more economical, efficient, and safe “nutraceuticals” in the health care arsenal. Therefore, we carried out the screening and molecular characterization of raw camel milk LAB isolates and tested their inhibitory activity against influenza virus H1N1. The strain that exhibited the highest antiviral activity against the H1N1 virus, confirmed by hemagglutination assay, was identified as Lactiplantibacillus plantarum KAU007. The study also confirmed the non-cytotoxic behavior of CFCS isolated from KAU007 against MDCK cells, approving its safety concern against the mammalian cells. Besides, CFCS at 5 and 10 mg/mL significantly decreased the level of IFN-γ (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001) and IL-6 (p < 0.001 and p < 0.005) in a dose-dependent manner, respectively. This is a preliminary report about the anti-influenza activity of KAU007 isolated from camel milk. This study reinforces that camel milk contains beneficial LAB isolates with antagonistic properties against the H1N1 influenza virus.