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High-throughput Screening for Broad-spectrum Chemical Inhibitors of RNA Viruses
Published on: May 5, 2014
Lessons learnt from broad-spectrum coronavirus antiviral drug discovery
Andrew A Bolinger1, Jun Li1, Xuping Xie2,3
1Chemical Biology Program, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA.
Introduction:
Highly pathogenic coronaviruses (CoVs), such as severe acute respiratory syndrome CoV (SARS-CoV), Middle East respiratory syndrome CoV (MERS-CoV), and the most recent SARS-CoV-2 responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic, pose significant threats to human populations over the past two decades. These CoVs have caused a broad spectrum of clinical manifestations ranging from asymptomatic to severe distress syndromes (ARDS), resulting in high morbidity and mortality.
Areas Covered:
The accelerated advancements in antiviral drug discovery, spurred by the COVID-19 pandemic, have shed new light on the imperative to develop treatments effective against a broad spectrum of CoVs. This perspective discusses strategies and lessons learnt in targeting viral non-structural proteins, structural proteins, drug repurposing, and combinational approaches for the development of antivirals against CoVs.
Expert Opinion:
Drawing lessons from the pandemic, it becomes evident that the absence of efficient broad-spectrum antiviral drugs increases the vulnerability of public health systems to the potential onslaught by highly pathogenic CoVs. The rapid and sustained spread of novel CoVs can have devastating consequences without effective and specifically targeted treatments. Prioritizing the effective development of broad-spectrum antivirals is imperative for bolstering the resilience of public health systems and mitigating the potential impact of future highly pathogenic CoVs.
Insights
Developing broad-spectrum antiviral drugs is crucial for combating highly pathogenic coronaviruses (CoVs) like SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV, and SARS-CoV-2. This approach enhances public health resilience against future viral threats.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Infectious Diseases
- Drug Discovery
Background:
- Highly pathogenic coronaviruses (CoVs) have caused significant global health crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic.
- These viruses manifest in diverse clinical presentations, from asymptomatic cases to severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), leading to high mortality.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss strategies for developing broad-spectrum antiviral drugs against coronaviruses.
- To highlight lessons learned from recent pandemic-driven advancements in antiviral research.
Main Methods:
- Review of strategies targeting viral non-structural and structural proteins.
- Exploration of drug repurposing and combination therapy approaches for CoV treatment.
Main Results:
- Accelerated advancements in antiviral drug discovery have been observed.
- The study identifies key areas for developing effective broad-spectrum treatments.
Conclusions:
- The lack of broad-spectrum antivirals leaves public health systems vulnerable to novel CoV outbreaks.
- Prioritizing the development of broad-spectrum antivirals is essential for future pandemic preparedness and mitigation.
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