Progress on COVID-19 Chemotherapeutics Discovery and Novel Technology

Yalan Zhou1, Huizhen Wang1, Li Yang1

  • 1Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China.

Insights

This review explores enzyme targets for developing new antiviral drugs against COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019). It covers preclinical and clinical drug development and emerging technologies for COVID-19 research.

Area of Science:

  • Virology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Drug Discovery

Background:

  • COVID-19, caused by SARS-CoV-2, is a global pandemic with no specific vaccines or effective drugs.
  • The virus spreads via respiratory droplets and airborne particles, posing significant public health risks.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review critical viral and host enzyme targets for developing chemical compounds and natural products as antiviral therapies.
  • To summarize the current status of potential antiviral drug development in preclinical and clinical stages.
  • To highlight novel technologies and pathological mechanisms relevant to COVID-19 drug research.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review focusing on enzyme targets in SARS-CoV-2 infection.
  • Analysis of preclinical and clinical studies on antiviral drug candidates.
  • Synthesis of information on emerging technologies in drug development and disease pathology.

Main Results:

  • Identified key viral and host enzymes as potential targets for antiviral drug discovery.
  • Detailed the progress of various antiviral drug candidates through development stages.
  • Outlined emerging technologies aiding in understanding COVID-19 and developing new treatments.

Conclusions:

  • Targeting specific enzymes is crucial for effective antiviral drug development against COVID-19.
  • A combination of drug development and technological innovation is essential to combat the pandemic.
  • Further research into pathological mechanisms and novel therapeutic strategies is warranted.

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