COVID-19 associated complications and potential therapeutic targets

Jasmin D Monpara1, Srushti J Sodha1, Pardeep K Gupta1

  • 1University of the Sciences, 600 South 43rd Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.

Insights

Currently, no approved drugs exist for coronavirus disease (COVID-19). This review summarizes current knowledge on COVID-19 pathophysiology, potential treatments like antivirals and corticosteroids, and ongoing clinical trials.

Area of Science:

  • Virology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Public Health

Background:

  • The novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) caused a global pandemic, severely impacting healthcare systems worldwide.
  • Significant research has advanced understanding of COVID-19 pathophysiology and potential treatments.
  • As of August 19, 2020, no specific drug was approved for COVID-19 treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review current information on the pathophysiology of COVID-19.
  • To identify potential therapeutic targets for COVID-19.
  • To summarize ongoing clinical trials for COVID-19 therapeutics.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of published studies on COVID-19.
  • Analysis of data from ongoing clinical trials.
  • Synthesis of information on disease mechanisms and treatment strategies.

Main Results:

  • Several treatment modalities are under investigation, including antiviral drugs (e.g., remdesivir), corticosteroids (e.g., dexamethasone), and convalescent plasma therapy.
  • Over 600 clinical trials are underway to evaluate potential COVID-19 therapeutics.
  • Early findings suggest supportive and symptomatic care remain crucial.

Conclusions:

  • Ongoing research is critical for developing effective COVID-19 treatments.
  • A range of therapeutic strategies are being explored to combat the disease.
  • Continued investigation into pathophysiology and clinical trials is essential for managing the pandemic.

Related Concept Videos

COPD: Pathogenesis and Clinical Features01:20

COPD: Pathogenesis and Clinical Features

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a group of lung conditions that progressively worsen over time, including chronic bronchitis and emphysema. This cluster of diseases collectively leads to a gradual and irreversible decline in lung function over time.
The primary cause for the onset of COPD is cigarette smoking and exposure to air pollution. These hazardous factors initiate a chain reaction within the lungs, resulting in chronic inflammation, damage to the airways, and a...
1.6K
Myocarditis III: Medical Management01:14

Myocarditis III: Medical Management

Myocarditis: Comprehensive Medical ManagementMyocarditis, the heart muscle inflammation, requires a comprehensive medical management strategy that addresses the underlying cause, provides supportive care, manages symptoms, and reduces cardiac workload.Infections and Autoimmune CausesAdminister appropriate antimicrobial therapy when an infectious agent causes myocarditis. For instance, penicillin treats infections caused by Group A Streptococcus. In cases where autoimmune processes are...
94
Pneumonia III: Complications and Assessment01:30

Pneumonia III: Complications and Assessment

Pneumonia poses the potential for numerous complications that warrant consideration. These complications include the following:
670
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-III: Symptoms and Complications.01:25

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-III: Symptoms and Complications.

Understanding the variety of primary symptoms and systemic complications that characterize chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is crucial for healthcare professionals.
Symptoms of COPD can be classified as primary or systemic. Primary symptoms relate to reduced airflow, while systemic or extrapulmonary symptoms relate to COPD's broader impact on the body.
Primary Symptoms of COPD:
3.3K
Microorganisms in Medicine and Therapeutics01:29

Microorganisms in Medicine and Therapeutics

Microorganisms play a fundamental role in vaccine development, gene therapy, and therapeutic production. Their biological properties are harnessed to advance medicine and public health. Beyond immunization, microorganisms contribute to gut health, antibiotic synthesis, and genetic disease treatment.Live Attenuated and Inactivated VaccinesLive attenuated vaccines, such as the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, utilize weakened forms of pathogens to closely resemble natural infections.
748
Targets for Drug Action: Overview01:26

Targets for Drug Action: Overview

Drugs target macromolecules to modify ongoing cellular processes. Primary drug targets include receptors, ion channels, transporters, and enzymes.
Receptors are either membrane-spanning or intracellular proteins, which upon binding a ligand, get activated and transmit the signal downstream to elicit a response. Drugs bind receptors, either mimicking the action of endogenous ligands or blocking the receptor activity to bring about a modified response. Nearly 35% of approved drugs target the G...
9.7K