Question

Antiviral activity of hydroxychloroquine is based on which of the following effects?

A. Inhibits release of virions from the host cell
B. Interrupts replication of viral RNA
C. Interrupts transcription of viral RNA
D. Interferes with viral entry into the host cell

Answer 1

The antiviral activity of hydroxychloroquine is based on its ability to interrupt viral entry into the host cell, preventing the virus from replicating.

Step-by-step explanation:

The antiviral activity of hydroxychloroquine, an antimalarial drug, has been a subject of interest, especially in the context of treating viral infections such as SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19. Hydroxychloroquine, along with its precursor chloroquine, gained attention early in the COVID-19 pandemic, and there was interest in exploring its potential as a treatment.

The antiviral activity of hydroxychloroquine is based on its ability to interrupt viral entry into the host cell (option D). Hydroxychloroquine prevents the fusion of the viral envelope with the host cell membrane, blocking the virus from entering the cell and replicating. This mode of action makes it effective against several viruses, including HIV and influenza.