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Updated: Jan 26, 2026

Zika Virus Specific Diagnostic Epitope Discovery
11:37

Zika Virus Specific Diagnostic Epitope Discovery

Published on: December 12, 2017

8.3K

Developing animal models of Zika virus infection for novel drug discovery

Cristine Marie Yde Ohki1, Cecilia Benazzato1,2, Fabiele Baldino Russo1

  • 1a Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences , University of São Paulo , São Paulo , Brazil.

Expert Opinion on Drug Discovery
|April 18, 2019
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Animal models are crucial for understanding Zika virus pathogenesis and developing treatments. Sofosbuvir shows promise in preventing Zika

Area of Science:

  • Virology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Neuroscience

Background:

  • Zika virus (ZIKV) infection was initially mild but became associated with Congenital Zika Syndrome (CZS) causing microcephaly and malformations.
  • Despite the 2015 Brazilian outbreak, ZIKV pathogenesis mechanisms remain unclear, and no approved vaccine exists.
  • There is a significant need for effective treatments to prevent ZIKV infection and vertical transmission.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review current knowledge on ZIKV pathophysiology using animal models.
  • To highlight advancements in drug discovery for ZIKV infection and vertical transmission prevention.
  • To identify potential therapeutic agents for ZIKV and CZS sequelae.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies utilizing animal models for ZIKV research.
  • Analysis of drug discovery efforts, including repurposed medications.
  • Focus on drugs demonstrating efficacy in preclinical models for ZIKV treatment and prevention of vertical transmission.

Main Results:

  • Animal models are essential for studying ZIKV pathophysiology and testing interventions.
  • Repurposed drugs offer a faster, cost-effective approach to ZIKV treatment.
  • Sofosbuvir demonstrated efficacy in mouse models, preventing ZIKV pathogenesis and vertical transmission.

Conclusions:

  • Animal models are vital for advancing ZIKV research and therapeutic development.
  • Repurposed drugs like Sofosbuvir show potential for treating ZIKV infection and preventing vertical transmission.
  • Further research is needed on long-term CZS effects and treatment strategies for its sequelae.
Keywords:
Animal modelZIKVazithromycinchloroquinecongenital Zika syndromedrug discoverygalidesivirniclosamidenovobiocinsofosbuvir

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