A Review of the Ongoing Research on Zika Virus Treatment

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Public Health
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Zika fever is an arboviral disease caused by Zika virus (ZIKV), transmitted by Aedes mosquitos.
• ZIKV infection has spread globally since 2007, with significant outbreaks reported in the Americas, posing a public health concern.
• ZIKV is linked to severe outcomes, including microcephaly and neurological disorders like Guillain-Barré syndrome, and lacks specific vaccines or antiviral treatments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review existing molecules that demonstrate interference with the Zika virus (ZIKV) life cycle.
• To discuss the therapeutic potential of these molecules for treating ZIKV infections.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of scientific articles and research databases.
• Analysis of studies detailing molecular compounds and their effects on ZIKV replication and pathogenesis.

Main Results:

• Several molecular compounds have been identified that inhibit ZIKV replication in vitro and in vivo.
• These molecules target different stages of the ZIKV life cycle, offering diverse therapeutic strategies.
• The identified molecules show promise but require further investigation for clinical application.

Conclusions:

• The development of effective antiviral therapies against ZIKV is crucial due to the absence of vaccines and the severity of associated health problems.
• Reviewed molecules represent potential candidates for ZIKV treatment, warranting further research and clinical trials.
• Interfering with the ZIKV life cycle is a viable strategy for developing novel antiviral interventions.