Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a leading cause of lower respiratory tract infections in infants, young children, and the elderly, yet effective therapeutic options remain limited. Plant-derived active compounds, owing to their multi-target mechanisms and low toxicity, have emerged as a promising resource for anti-RSV drug development. This review systematically summarizes recent progress on plant phytochemicals such as quercetin and andrographolide against RSV. Mechanisms of action include blocking viral attachment (e.g., resveratrol competitively binding to heparan sulfate proteoglycan receptors), inhibiting viral genome replication (e.g., quercetin regulating purine metabolism), and enhancing host immune responses (e.g., polysaccharides modulating the TLR/NF-κB pathway), thereby achieving synergistic antiviral effects. Key compounds focus on polyphenols (flavonoids, phenolic acids), terpenoids (monoterpenes, diterpenes), and alkaloids, with emphasis on their structure–activity relationships. Translational challenges such as poor bioavailability and component complexity are discussed, with proposed strategies including nanocarrier delivery systems (e.g., matrine liposomes) and structural modification approaches. The multi-target characteristics of plant-derived compounds provide new directions for the development of novel anti-RSV therapies.

Bingyao Wang, Daishun Liu. Mechanisms and Research Progress of Plant-Derived Active Compounds against Respiratory Syncytial Virus. Frontiers in Medical Science Research (2025), Vol. 7, Issue 4: 91-100. https://doi.org/10.25236/FMSR.2025.070412.

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