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Published on: October 29, 2015
Strategies to develop antivirals against enterovirus 71
1Research Center for Emerging Viral Infections, Chang Gung University, 259 Wen-Hua 1st Road, Kwei-Shan, Taoyuan, Taiwan.
Virology Journal
|January 24, 2013
Summary
Enterovirus 71 (EV71) causes severe neurological illness in children. This review explores small molecule antivirals, drug resistance, and animal models for EV71, crucial in the post-poliovirus era.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Infectious Diseases
- Drug Discovery
Background:
- Enterovirus 71 (EV71) is a significant human pathogen responsible for severe neurological complications and fatalities in children.
- EV71 outbreaks in the Asia-Pacific region highlight its status as a major public health concern, especially post-poliovirus eradication.
- Currently, no effective vaccines or approved antiviral therapies exist specifically for EV71.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current development of small molecule antiviral agents targeting EV71.
- To discuss challenges including drug resistance and potential strategies to overcome them.
- To evaluate the utility of animal models in assessing the efficacy of EV71 antivirals.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent advancements in EV71 antiviral research.
- Analysis of small molecules developed for related enteroviruses (poliovirus, rhinoviruses) and their potential against EV71.
- Examination of studies on EV71 drug resistance mechanisms and proposed solutions.
- Overview of animal models used for preclinical evaluation of anti-EV71 agents.
Main Results:
- Several small molecules, including those repurposed from poliovirus and rhinovirus research, show promise against EV71.
- Understanding of EV71 molecular characteristics aids in designing targeted antiviral strategies.
- Insights into drug resistance mechanisms are emerging, guiding the development of more robust therapies.
- Various animal models are being utilized to assess the in vivo efficacy and safety of potential EV71 antivirals.
Conclusions:
- Small molecule antivirals represent a promising therapeutic avenue for EV71 infections.
- Addressing drug resistance is critical for the long-term success of antiviral treatments.
- Continued research and clinical investigation are necessary to translate promising candidates into approved therapies.
- The molecular mechanisms elucidated can inform the design of next-generation EV71 inhibitors.
