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Vector-Transmitted Flaviviruses: An Antiviral Molecules Overview

Erica Diani1, Anna Lagni1, Virginia Lotti1

  • 1Department of Diagnostic and Public Health, Microbiology Section, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy.

Microorganisms
|October 28, 2023
PubMed

Insights

Flaviviruses cause millions of infections yearly, with limited treatments available. This review explores promising antiviral compounds and challenges in developing effective flavivirus therapies.

Area of Science:

  • Virology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Drug Discovery

Background:

  • Flaviviruses cause significant global health issues, including Yellow Fever, dengue, West Nile, and Zika, leading to severe pathologies and an estimated 20,000 deaths annually.
  • Expanding geographical ranges due to climate and social factors increase flavivirus transmission.
  • Limited approved antiviral treatments exist for flavivirus infections, highlighting an urgent public health need.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review current compounds under evaluation for treating flavivirus infections.
  • To outline the mechanisms of action for potential antiviral agents.
  • To discuss challenges encountered in clinical trials for flavivirus drug development.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of ongoing studies and clinical trials for flavivirus antivirals.
  • Analysis of identified compounds targeting various steps of the viral life cycle.
  • Examination of challenges in flavivirus drug development and clinical evaluation.

Main Results:

  • Numerous compounds are being investigated in vitro and in vivo to inhibit flavivirus replication.
  • Several viral proteins exhibit high conservation, presenting viable targets for drug design.
  • The absence of approved antivirals remains a critical public health concern.

Conclusions:

  • Despite ongoing research, there is a significant lack of approved antiviral therapies for flaviviruses.
  • Identifying and developing effective treatments for flavivirus infections is crucial due to their widespread impact.
  • Further research and clinical trials are necessary to overcome challenges and bring new antivirals to patients.
Keywords:
DENVTBEVWNVYFVZIKVantiviraldrugflaviviruspublic healthzoonotic

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