Host Cell Proteases Mediating SARS-CoV-2 Entry: An Overview.

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Biochemistry
• Drug Discovery

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2, presents a significant global health and economic challenge.
• Current therapeutic options for SARS-CoV-2 are limited, necessitating the development of novel treatment strategies.
• SARS-CoV-2 entry into host cells relies on the spike protein binding to the hACE2 receptor and subsequent protease-mediated activation.

Approach:

• This review examines the biochemical characteristics of host cell proteases involved in SARS-CoV-2 entry.
• It highlights small molecule inhibitors targeting these proteases, identified through in silico research.
• The focus is on proteases like TMPRSS2, cathepsins, furin, trypsin, and Factor Xa.

Key Points:

• Host cell proteases play a critical role in facilitating SARS-CoV-2 infection.
• Inhibiting these proteases has shown efficacy against SARS-CoV-2 in vitro.
• Small molecules targeting these proteases represent potential therapeutic candidates.

Conclusions:

• Host cell proteases are viable therapeutic targets for combating SARS-CoV-2.
• In silico approaches can identify promising small molecule inhibitors for drug development.
• Further research into protease inhibitors may lead to effective treatments for COVID-19.