2′-Fluoro-2′-Deoxycytidine Inhibits Borna Disease Virus Replication and Spread

Abstract

ABSTRACT Borna disease virus (BDV) causes neurological diseases in a variety of warm-blooded animal species, possibly including humans. To date, there is no effective treatment against BDV infection. Recently, we reported on the antiviral activity of 1-β- d -arabinofuranosylcytosine (Ara-C). However, Ara-C's cytotoxic side effects are a major obstacle for its therapeutic use. Herein, we demonstrate that the nucleoside analog 2′-fluoro-2′-deoxycytidine (2′-FdC) exhibits potent antiviral activity against BDV. Importantly, 2′-FdC-associated cytotoxicity is negligible, indicating 2′-FdC as an excellent candidate for the development of antiviral therapy against BDV.