Stabilization of human rhinovirus serotype 2 against pH-induced conformational change by antiviral compounds

Four WIN compounds with anti-picornavirus activities were tested for their ability to stabilize human rhinovirus serotype 2 (HRV-2) against low pH-induced conformational changes in vitro, as determined by specific immunoprecipitation. These results were compared to the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) as measured in a plaque reduction assay. A direct relationship was observed between the concentration of the compound that prevented the low pH-induced conformational changes and the MIC, indicating that stabilization is an important element in the mode of action of these drugs against HRV-2.