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Updated: Nov 12, 2025
09:29
Early Viral Entry Assays for the Identification and Evaluation of Antiviral Compounds
Published on: October 29, 2015
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Antivirals with common targets against highly pathogenic viruses
Lu Lu1, Shan Su1, Haitao Yang2
1Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology (MOE/NHC/CAMS), School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Institute of Infectious Disease and Biosecurity, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.
Cell
|March 19, 2021
Summary
Emerging viruses pose a constant threat. Developing broad-spectrum antivirals targeting conserved viral proteins, like RNA-dependent RNA polymerase, is crucial for future epidemic preparedness.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Drug Discovery
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Emerging viruses have historically caused significant mortality.
- Climate change and globalization accelerate viral transmission.
- A need exists for broad-spectrum antivirals against conserved viral targets.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the development of antivirals with common targets.
- To identify strategies for combating emerging and re-emerging viral threats.
- To provide insights for future antiviral drug development.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of antiviral development.
- Analysis of antivirals targeting conserved viral proteins.
- Examination of antivirals targeting common viral functions.
Main Results:
- Antivirals targeting conserved proteins across different viruses show promise.
- Compounds targeting RNA-dependent RNA polymerase are a key focus.
- Development of antivirals with shared targets offers a viable strategy.
Conclusions:
- Targeting conserved viral proteins is essential for broad-spectrum antiviral activity.
- Antivirals against RNA-dependent RNA polymerase are critical for future epidemics.
- This review provides a foundation for developing novel antivirals against emerging viruses.
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