Research in the field of antiviral chemotherapy performed in the "Stefan S. Nicolau" Institute of Virology.

A brief review is made of the research in the field of antiviral chemotherapy performed in the "Stefan S. Nicolau" Institute of Virology during the 35 years since its foundation. The investigations have mainly focused on influenza and herpes virus, but the chemotherapy of other viral infections (mumps, vaccinia, Coxsackie, etc.) has also been approached. Most of the chemotherapy agents assayed have been represented by natural preparations: immunoglobulins, interferon, hormones, vitamins, plant extracts (garlic, horse radish), bee products (propolis, royal jelly); attempts have also been made with numerous synthetic compounds. Stress is laid on the preparations already tested with a view to application in human clinic, and the prospects of chemotherapy research in the Institute of Virology are discussed.