Emerging Therapeutic Approaches to COVID-19
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Updated: Nov 18, 2025
Live Imaging and Quantification of Viral Infection in K18 hACE2 Transgenic Mice Using Reporter-Expressing Recombinant SARS-CoV-2
Published on: November 5, 2021
Indrakant K Singh1, Pratibha Kumari2, Pooja Mittal1
1Department of Zoology, Deshbandhu College, University of Delhi, New Delhi-110019, India.
Abstract:
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is caused by a novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), which is a positive single-stranded RNA virus having a large genome ~30 kb. SARSCoV- 2 is zoonotic and highly contagious, causing severe pneumonia-like symptoms. The efficacy of the different potential drug and drug candidates against COVID-19 has been investigated, which are under various stages of clinical trials. The drugs effective against SARS, and Middle east respiratory syndrome (MERS), have been proposed to have a high potential for the treatment of COVID-19. Here, we selected plant-based materials implicated in the prevention and therapy of COVID-19. The plant produces secondary metabolites in response to viral infection. Different classes of secondary metabolites have different mechanisms to counter virus attacks. Many nanomaterials produced by carbohydrates and lipids have been exploited for their in-vitro and in-vivo delivery of antiviral therapeutics. The vaccine has shown impressive results in producing antibodies against SARS-CoV2 and has been evaluated for safety, tolerance, and preliminary immunogenicity. Similarly, DNA/RNA-based therapy has shown high clinical significance. Various forms of vitamins, minerals, herbs, and phytonutrients help to enhance immunity and be implicated in the control of COVID-19. However, such measures should not replace social distancing, quarantine and special care.
Insights
This study explores plant-based treatments and immune-boosting strategies for COVID-19 (Coronavirus disease). It highlights the potential of natural compounds and therapies alongside conventional methods for managing the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
Area of Science:
- Virology and Immunology
- Natural Product Chemistry
- Drug Discovery
Background:
- Coronavirus disease (COVID-19), caused by SARS-CoV-2, is a highly contagious viral illness.
- Existing research explores various therapeutic avenues, including repurposed drugs and novel treatments.
- Plant-based materials and immune-enhancing nutrients are being investigated for their antiviral properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review plant-based materials and other natural interventions for COVID-19 prevention and therapy.
- To explore the mechanisms of action of plant-derived secondary metabolites against viral infections.
- To assess the role of nanomaterials, vaccines, and DNA/RNA-based therapies in combating SARS-CoV-2.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on plant-based antivirals, secondary metabolites, and immune modulators.
- Analysis of research on nanomaterial drug delivery systems for antiviral therapeutics.
- Evaluation of data on vaccine efficacy, safety, and immunogenicity against SARS-CoV-2.
- Review of studies on DNA/RNA-based therapies and nutritional supplements for immune support.
Main Results:
- Plant-derived secondary metabolites exhibit diverse mechanisms to counteract viral attacks.
- Nanomaterials offer effective in-vitro and in-vivo delivery of antiviral agents.
- Vaccines demonstrate significant potential in generating antibodies against SARS-CoV-2.
- Vitamins, minerals, herbs, and phytonutrients can enhance immunity and aid in COVID-19 management.
Conclusions:
- Plant-based materials and natural compounds represent a promising area for COVID-19 therapeutic development.
- A multi-faceted approach combining natural interventions with conventional treatments and public health measures is crucial.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate the efficacy and safety of these natural approaches.
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