Virlaza® Demonstrates Profound Anti-inflammatory Effects Against Viral and Bacterial Infections: From Laboratory Research to Clinical Application

<bold>Background:</bold> Inflammation is critical in viral and bacterial infections, yet effective anti-inflammatory treatments for conditions like SARS-CoV-2 and bacterial-induced ALI are lacking. <bold>Aims:</bold> We investigated whether Virlaza®, an herbal medicine, may reduce inflammation from bacterial and viral etiology. <bold>Methods:</bold> We combined pre-clinical and clinical approaches, utilizing in vitro studies with BEAS-2B and MRC-5 cells stimulated by SARS-CoV-2, a mouse model of LPS-induced ALI, and a clinical study with hospitalized moderate COVID-19 patients (28 standard treatment vs 28 standard treatment + Virlaza®). <bold>Results:</bold> SARS-CoV-2 increased the release of inflammatory cytokines by BEAS-2B and MRC-5 cells, while Virlaza® significantly reduced it (ATP, IL-1beta, IL-6, IL-8, TNF-alpha; p<0.001). Virlaza® reversed SARS-CoV-2-induced P2X7 receptor and iNOS expression (p<0.001). In a mouse model of LPS-induced ALI, Virlaza® reduced the number of total leukocytes, neutrophils, lymphocytes, and macrophages in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) (p<0.01), the levels of IL-1beta, IL-6, CXCL1/KC, IL-17, and TNF-alpha, while increased IL-10 (p<0.01). Virlaza® reduced leukocytes accumulation in lung parenchyma and systemic inflammation (p<0.05). In a clinical study, the addition of Virlaza® to standard treatment resulted in enhanced SpO2, ferritin and C-reactive protein levels (p<0.05), resulting in a reduced time in hospitalization (p<0.05). <bold>Conclusion:</bold> Virlaza® possesses anti-inflammatory effects in the context of viral (SARS-CoV-2) and bacterial (LPS) infections, offering a further promising therapeutic option for infections.