Niclosamide for Covid-19: bridging the gap.

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Virology
• Immunology

Background:

• Niclosamide (NCL) is an established anthelminthic drug with recognized anti-inflammatory and antiviral activities.
• Its broad-spectrum antiviral potential positions it as a candidate for managing SARS-CoV-2 infections and mitigating COVID-19 severity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and elucidate the potential therapeutic role of Niclosamide (NCL) in the context of COVID-19.
• To assess NCL's mechanisms of action against SARS-CoV-2 and its inflammatory effects.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature search was conducted across major scientific databases including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and Science Direct.
• The review focused on studies investigating the protective effects of NCL therapy in COVID-19.

Main Results:

• Niclosamide exhibits significant anti-inflammatory and antiviral effects, primarily by neutralizing endosomal pH and inhibiting viral maturation.
• NCL modulates inflammatory signaling pathways and cytokine release, but its low aqueous solubility limits oral bioavailability and in vivo efficacy against SARS-CoV-2.

Conclusions:

• Niclosamide possesses anti-inflammatory and immune-regulatory properties, impacting cytokine release and key signaling pathways like NF-κB and mTOR.
• NCL demonstrates anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity by disrupting the viral life cycle and potentially inducing cytopathic effects.
• Prospective clinical studies are crucial to validate NCL's role in improving COVID-19 severity and patient outcomes.