Origin, Pathogenesis, Diagnosis and Treatment Options for SARS-CoV-2: A Review

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Public Health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Emerging viral infections, particularly zoonotic viruses, pose significant global public health threats in the 21st century.
• Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) caused the COVID-19 pandemic, marking the third major coronavirus outbreak this century.
• Previous outbreaks like SARS and MERS highlight the socio-economic impact and the need for preparedness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive overview of coronaviruses, focusing on their chronological emergence and genomic characteristics.
• To elucidate the mechanism of action of SARS-CoV-2 and its global repercussions.
• To explore potential therapeutic strategies for combating the COVID-19 pandemic.

Main Methods:

• This review synthesizes information from existing literature on coronaviruses.
• It analyzes the evolutionary history and genomic features of various coronavirus strains.
• The review examines the pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2 and its impact on global health and society.

Main Results:

• Coronaviruses have a history of zoonotic spillover and adaptation, influencing host-virus co-evolution.
• SARS-CoV-2 exhibits specific genomic features that contribute to its transmissibility and pathogenicity.
• The COVID-19 pandemic has had profound global repercussions, necessitating urgent therapeutic interventions.

Conclusions:

• Understanding the complex nature and clinical attributes of coronaviruses is crucial for managing emerging infectious diseases.
• Lessons learned from past coronavirus outbreaks are vital for addressing the current COVID-19 pandemic.
• Further research into therapeutic options is essential to mitigate the devastating effects of SARS-CoV-2.