Molecular docking analysis of FDA approved drugs with the glycoprotein from Junin and Machupo viruses

Himani Malhotra1, Arvind Kumar2, Yasir Afaq3

  • 1Department of Biotechnology, Lovely Professional University, Jalandhar-Delhi G.T. Road, Phagwara, Punjab, INDIA - 144411.

Bioinformation
|November 24, 2022
PubMed

Insights

Junin and Machupo viruses cause hemorrhagic fever in South America. Molecular docking identified MK-3207 and Dihydro ergotamine as potential drug candidates targeting viral glycoproteins.

Area of Science:

  • Virology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Drug Discovery

Background:

  • Junin and Machupo viruses are South American arenaviruses responsible for hemorrhagic fevers.
  • Transmission occurs via rodents, leading to chronic illness and high mortality in humans.
  • Effective antiviral therapies are crucial for managing these diseases.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the potential of FDA-approved drugs for treating Junin and Machupo viral infections.
  • To perform molecular docking analysis of selected drugs against viral glycoproteins.
  • To identify promising drug candidates for further development.

Main Methods:

  • Molecular docking simulations were employed to analyze drug-protein interactions.
  • The study focused on the glycoproteins of Junin and Machupo viruses as targets.
  • Binding affinities and features of FDA-approved drugs were evaluated.

Main Results:

  • MK-3207 demonstrated optimal binding features with the target protein.
  • Dihydro ergotamine also exhibited favorable binding characteristics.
  • These findings suggest potential therapeutic applications for these compounds.

Conclusions:

  • MK-3207 and Dihydro ergotamine show promise as antiviral agents against Junin and Machupo viruses.
  • Further validation is recommended for these drug candidates in preclinical and clinical studies.
  • This research contributes to the ongoing efforts in arenavirus drug discovery.