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Experimental Models of SARS-CoV-2 Infection: Possible Platforms to Study COVID-19 Pathogenesis and Potential
Sareh Pandamooz1, Benjamin Jurek2, Carl-Philipp Meinung3
1Stem Cells Technology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran;
Abstract:
In December 2019, a novel coronavirus crossed species barriers to infect humans and was effectively transmitted from person to person, leading to a worldwide pandemic. Development of effective clinical interventions, including vaccines and antiviral drugs that could prevent or limit theburden or transmission of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), is a global health priority. It is thus of utmost importance to assess possible therapeutic strategies against SARS-CoV-2 using experimental models that recapitulate aspects of the human disease. Here, we review available models currently being developed and used to study SARS-CoV-2 infection and highlight their application to screen potential therapeutic approaches, including repurposed antiviral drugs and vaccines. Each identified model provides a valuable insight into SARS-CoV-2 cellular tropism, replication kinetics, and cell damage that could ultimately enhance understanding of SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis and protective immunity.
Insights
Researchers reviewed experimental models to assess therapeutic strategies against SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2). These models aid in screening antiviral drugs and vaccines for pandemic preparedness.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- The emergence of SARS-CoV-2 in 2019 triggered a global pandemic, necessitating urgent development of clinical interventions.
- Effective vaccines and antiviral drugs are crucial for controlling the burden and transmission of SARS-CoV-2.
- Assessing therapeutic strategies requires experimental models that accurately mimic human SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and highlight the utility of available experimental models for studying SARS-CoV-2 infection.
- To emphasize the application of these models in screening potential therapeutic approaches, including drugs and vaccines.
- To enhance the understanding of SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis and protective immunity.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of current experimental models for SARS-CoV-2 research.
- Analysis of model applications in evaluating antiviral drugs and vaccine candidates.
- Evaluation of how models inform studies on viral tropism, replication, and pathogenesis.
Main Results:
- Various experimental models are available for SARS-CoV-2 research, each offering unique insights.
- These models are instrumental in screening and validating potential therapeutic interventions.
- Data from these models contribute to understanding viral cellular tropism, replication dynamics, and induced cell damage.
Conclusions:
- Experimental models are essential tools for advancing the development of SARS-CoV-2 therapeutics.
- Continued development and application of these models will accelerate the fight against the pandemic.
- Understanding SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis and immunity is significantly enhanced through the use of appropriate experimental models.
