Scientists have developed a broad-acting antiviral drug that can not only fight Wuhan pneumonia virus, but also inhibit Ebola virus and dengue virus, bringing breakthrough progress in antiviral treatment in the future; schematic diagram. (Picture taken from Unspalsh)
[Compiled by Chen Chengliang/Comprehensive Report]Although Paxlovid, the specific drug for Wuhan pneumonia (COVID-19), has effectively reduced the risk of severe illness and death, there are still hidden concerns about viral drug resistance. “SciTechDaily” recently reported that scientists have developed a broad-acting antiviral drug that can not only fight Wuhan pneumonia virus, but also inhibit Ebola virus and dengue virus, bringing a breakthrough in future antiviral treatment. progress.
This research was led by the team of Professor Thomas Tuschl of The Rockefeller University in the United States, and the results have been published in international journals. The new drug targets the “methyltransferase” on the “cap” structure of viral RNA. This structure can stabilize viral RNA, avoid immune attacks and promote viral reproduction. Compared with existing drugs that inhibit “protease”, “methyltransferase” has not received much attention for a long time due to the lack of suitable drug targets.
Professor Tushur pointed out that targeting “methyltransferase” has many advantages: first, it is difficult for viruses to develop resistance to “proteases” and “methyltransferases” at the same time; second, the structure of “methyltransferase” between viruses and human bodies The difference is significant, as the drug can precisely attack the virus without affecting normal functions. In the early days of the epidemic, the team screened more than 430,000 compounds and finally found a small molecule compound that could inhibit the Wuhan pneumonia virus “methyltransferase” NSP14. This compound has been confirmed by cell experiments and mouse experiments that its effect is equivalent to Paxlovid and can reduce the risk of drug resistance.
More notably, the compound was still effective against mutant viruses and had an additive effect when combined with protease inhibitors. Professor Tushur emphasized that even if used alone, the virus cannot escape its effects. This study confirms that “methyltransferase” is a potential target for a new generation of antiviral drugs, and the compound may have minimal side effects because it only affects the structure of the virus and does not interfere with the normal functioning of the human body.
However, the compound is not yet ready for human trials and its stability and bioavailability still need to be optimized. The team is now applying this technology to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), flaviviruses (such as dengue and Zika viruses), poxvirus, and even fungal infections. This breakthrough opens up a new frontier in the fight against multiple pathogens and provides more response options for future global pandemics.
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Scientists develop Broad-Spectrum Antiviral Drug: A Potential Game-Changer for Future Pandemics
Recent breakthroughs in antiviral research offer hope in the fight against a range of deadly viruses. Scientists have developed a new drug that shows promise against not only COVID-19 but also Ebola and dengue fever, marking a significant advancement in treatment options. This development could revolutionize how we combat viral infections and prepare for future pandemics.
Interview with Dr. Emily Carter, Professor of Virology at Johns Hopkins University
World-Today-News: Dr. Carter, thank you for joining us today. Can you tell our readers more about this exciting new antiviral drug and how it effectively works?
Dr. Carter: Absolutely.This new drug targets a specific part of the viral RNA structure called the “methyltransferase.” Think of it as a crucial tool that viruses use to disguise themselves and replicate effectively within the host.
World-Today-News: How does targeting “methyltransferase” differ from existing antiviral strategies, like those used against COVID-19? What are the advantages?
dr. Carter: Most existing antivirals, like Paxlovid, target “proteases,” which are enzymes viruses use for replication. While effective, there’s a risk of viruses developing resistance to these drugs over time. Targeting “methyltransferase” presents a two-pronged advantage:
it’s harder for viruses to develop resistance to both “proteases” and ”methyltransferases” simultaneously. Additionally, the structure of “methyltransferase” differs significantly between viruses and human cells, allowing for more precise targeting with fewer side effects.
World-Today-News: That’s fascinating. You mentioned this drug has shown efficacy against Ebola and dengue, too. Could you elaborate on it’s potential for combating various viral threats?
Dr. Carter: Yes, the promising aspect of this research is that this compound appears to be effective against a broad spectrum of viruses, not just COVID-19. The initial research focused on coronaviruses,but the scientists have now begun applying this technology to viruses like respiratory syncytial virus (RSV),flaviviruses (including dengue and Zika),poxviruses,and even fungal infections.
World-Today-News: This truly holds enormous potential. What are the next steps in bringing this drug to patients?
Dr. Carter: While incredibly promising, the drug is still in preclinical stages.More research is needed to optimize its stability and effectiveness for human use.
The team is working towards initiating clinical trials, a crucial step in determining its safety and efficacy in humans.
World-Today-News: Dr. Carter, thank you for sharing your expertise and shedding light on this groundbreaking research. This development offers a glimmer of hope for a safer and healthier future.
