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COVID-19: An Update on Pathogenesis and Treatment
Marwa A Al Dhamen1, Abrar F Alhashim1, Hawra H Alqattan1
1Department of Pharmacology, College of Clinical Pharmacy, Imam Abdul Rahman Bin Faisal University, P.O. Box 1982, Dammam, 31441, Saudi Arabia.
Current Pharmaceutical Design
|January 4, 2021
Summary
The novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) causes COVID-19, spreading through respiratory droplets. While generally mild, it can cause severe pneumonia, with supportive care being the primary treatment.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- The emergence of SARS-CoV-2 in 2019 led to the COVID-19 pandemic, primarily affecting the respiratory system.
- Transmission occurs via respiratory droplets, with an incubation period of 2-14 days.
- Symptoms range from mild (fever, cough) to severe pneumonia.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the transmission pathways of SARS-CoV-2.
- To discuss the genetic sequence and unique genomic features of SARS-CoV-2.
- To outline the current treatment approaches for COVID-19.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of transmission, genetics, and treatment of SARS-CoV-2.
- Analysis of viral genome structure, including (+) ssRNA, 5' cap, and 3' polyadenylation.
- Discussion of viral replication mechanisms involving nonstructural proteins.
Main Results:
- SARS-CoV-2 exhibits rapid transmission but a lower fatality rate compared to MERS-CoV.
- The virus utilizes a (+) ssRNA genome, distinct from other related viruses.
- Key nonstructural proteins (helicase, ATPase, RNA-dependent RNA polymerase) are crucial for viral replication.
Conclusions:
- Understanding SARS-CoV-2 transmission, genetic makeup, and replication is vital for managing the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Supportive care is the mainstay of treatment, with the role of antivirals still under investigation.
- Home isolation plays a critical role in preventing further spread of the infection.
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