urtica dioica agglutinin

**Urtica dioica agglutinin** is a small plant lectin (8.7 kDa, 86 amino acids) derived from the stinging nettle (*Urtica dioica*). It is unusual among plant lectins for its molecular structure and is characterized by binding specifically to N-acetylglucosamine residues. UDA functions as a potent antiviral agent: in vitro and in vivo studies have shown inhibition of both SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2 by blocking the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of the spike protein, thereby preventing viral entry into host cells. It has also demonstrated inhibition of other viral transmission events, such as HIV, through interference with viral cell entry[1][4][5]. UDA exhibits stability across a range of pH and temperature, retaining activity even at pH 1.0 and 80°C. Its toxicity in human cells appears low[4]. It is a subject of research for antiviral therapy, particularly for COVID-19, and for its potential antiproliferative effects in oncology[6]. It does not inhibit ACE2 directly but blocks spike protein–host cell interactions[1][4][2].

Other names

stinging nettle lectinUDA