Perspective for Drug Discovery Targeting SARS Coronavirus Methyltransferases: Function, Structure and Inhibition

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Drug Discovery
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Severe acute respiratory syndrome-associated coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) caused a global pandemic with millions of deaths.
• Antiviral drugs and vaccines have reduced SARS-CoV-2 impact, but viral evolution necessitates new therapeutic strategies.
• SARS-CoV, a related virus, exhibited a higher mortality rate, highlighting the need for broad-spectrum coronavirus therapies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the function, structure, and inhibition of methyltransferases in SARS-CoV-2 and SARS-CoV.
• To discuss the potential of targeting viral methyltransferases as a therapeutic strategy against coronaviruses.
• To identify challenges and future perspectives in developing methyltransferase inhibitors.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on SARS-CoV-2 and SARS-CoV methyltransferases.
• Analysis of structural and functional data of viral methyltransferases.
• Synthesis of information on existing and potential methyltransferase inhibitors.

Main Results:

• Viral methyltransferases are essential for SARS-CoV replication and are promising drug targets.
• Understanding the structure and function of these enzymes is key to designing effective inhibitors.
• Drug resistance and viral evolution pose challenges to current and future antiviral therapies.

Conclusions:

• Targeting viral methyltransferases offers a viable strategy for developing novel antiviral therapies against SARS-CoV-2 and related coronaviruses.
• Further research into methyltransferase inhibition is critical for preparedness against future viral outbreaks.
• A comprehensive understanding of enzyme mechanisms and resistance pathways is essential for long-term therapeutic success.