Fig. 3
Inhibition of 2-E protein by classical viroporin inhibitors rimantadine (Rim), amantadine (Ama) and Hexamethylene amiloride (HMA). A Cell viability assay. Relative absorbance was normalized to control (mock transfection). B Summary of IC50 data. C Current-voltage relation of recombinantly expressed 2-E in HEK293 cells. Transmembrane voltage was stepped in 10 mV intervals in the range from − 60 to + 50 mV and associated currents recorded. Controls were mock (empty pRK vector) transfected HEK293 cells. Expression of 2-E resulted in increased currents that were reduced in the presence of inhibitor. Panels from left to right represent Rim, Ama and HMA. Concentrations are indicated in the Figure. D Current-voltage relationships for Rim, Ama and HMA were converted into an IC50 curve at −60mV and normalized between Irel = 0 (mock-transfected) and Irel = 1 (SARS-CoV-2 E protein without inhibitor); Irel = relative current. E Summary of IC50 data of Rim, Ama and HMA from patch-clamp electrophysiology