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Updated: Dec 17, 2025

Assays for the Identification of Novel Antivirals against Bluetongue Virus
Published on: October 11, 2013
Discovering small-molecule therapeutics against SARS-CoV-2
Vaibhav Tiwari1, Jacob C Beer2, Nehru Viji Sankaranarayanan3
1Department of Microbiology and Immunology, College of Graduate Studies, Midwestern University Downers Grove, IL 6051, USA; Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine, Midwestern University, Downers Grove, IL 60515, USA.
This review explores novel therapeutic targets for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), beyond traditional protease inhibitors. It highlights unexplored strategies like disrupting viral protein oligomerization and host-virus interactions to combat COVID-19.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Infectious Diseases
- Drug Discovery
Background:
- Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) causes a global pandemic with high mortality.
- The SARS-CoV-2 genome shares homology with SARS-CoV, influencing treatment strategies.
- Current treatments focus on off-label antivirals and targeting viral proteases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing drugs used against COVID-19.
- To highlight underexplored therapeutic opportunities for SARS-CoV-2.
- To discuss novel strategies for developing effective treatments.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of current COVID-19 treatments.
- Analysis of SARS-CoV-2 genome and protein interactions.
- Identification of alternative therapeutic targets.
Main Results:
- Several antiviral drugs are used off-label for COVID-19.
- Traditional targets like viral proteases are actively pursued.
- Underexplored avenues include disrupting E and M protein oligomerization and host-virus interactions.
Conclusions:
- Novel therapeutic strategies are needed to combat SARS-CoV-2.
- Exploring alternative targets can lead to more effective treatments.
- A multi-pronged approach is essential for managing the COVID-19 pandemic.
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