Cryptotanshinone Suppresses BVDV Propagation by Suppressing Cell Apoptosis and Restoring Hormone Secretion in Bovine Granulosa Cells

Bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) constitutes a significant pathogen adversely threatening reproductive performance in the cattle industry, primarily by inducing ovarian dysfunction characterized by aberrant hormone synthesis and impaired follicular development. Although several commercial vaccines are available, they are insufficient for prevention and control BVDV infection, underscoring the necessity for the development of novel therapeutic drugs. This study aimed to investigate the antiviral activity of cryptotanshinone (CRY) against BVDV infection and its protective effects on bovine ovarian granulosa cells (BOGCs). An in vitro infection model was established by exposing BOGCs to BVDV. The results demonstrated that CRY exhibits anti-BVDV activity and alleviates detrimental effects on BOGCs through multiple mechanisms. Comparative analysis revealed that therapeutic administration of CRY constitutes the most effective mode of intervention. Furthermore, CRY promotes the secretion of estradiol (E₂) and progesterone (P₄) in BOGCs, counteracting the BVDV-induced reduction in these hormones. Moreover, CRY shows protective activity by mitigating BVDV-induced apoptosis in BOGCs. In summary, this study is the first to elucidate the inhibitory effect of CRY on BVDV and its regulatory role in BOGCs function, suggesting that CRY holds potential application value in the clinical treatment of BVDV-related reproductive disorders.