Costunolide and Lupeol reinforce IRF3 gene activity in human immune response against COVID-19

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus strain, is a significant threat worldwide due to its fast spreading among people. Currently, many vaccines have been used for prevention and to improve the immune system of people. Still, these vaccines are not prevented enough, and many severe side effects exist, including death in many patients. In this study, firstly, we attempted to identify the target gene responsible for driving the immune response against viruses through network and functional analyses; secondly, potential active components present in the ingredients of Kabasura Kudineer (15 herbal plants components) were identified, and its effect against COVID-19; thirdly, the transcription factor (IRF3) and active compounds of Kabasura Kudineer were involved in virtual screening. Pharmacokinetic properties were compared after predicting the ADMET values of Costunolide, Lupeol, Vazegepant and Methylprednisolone. The overall work revealed that the selected active compounds increase the transcription factor enhancement regarding the immune response.