Antivirals Against Coronaviruses: Candidate Drugs for SARS-CoV-2 Treatment?

Abstract

Coronaviruses (CoVs) are a group of viruses from the family Coronaviridae that can infect humans and animals, causing mild to severe diseases. The ongoing pandemic of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) represents a global threat, urging the development of new therapeutic strategies. Here we present a selection of relevant compounds that have been described from 2005 until now as having in vitro and/or in vivo antiviral activities against human and/or animal CoVs. We also present compounds that have reached clinical trials as well as further discussing the potentiality of other molecules for application in (re)emergent CoVs outbreaks. Finally, through rationalization of the data presented herein, we wish to encourage further research encompassing these compounds as potential SARS-CoV-2 drug candidates.

Keywords: COVID-19; SARS-CoV-2; antivirals; coronaviruses; treatment.

FIGURE 1

Schematic structure of SARS-CoV-2. The viral structure is primarily formed by the structural proteins such as spike (S), membrane (M), envelope (E), and nucleocapsid (N) proteins. The S, M, and E proteins are all embedded in the viral envelope, a lipid bilayer derived from the host cell membrane. The N protein interacts with the viral RNA in to the core of the virion.

FIGURE 2

Schematic representation of SARS-CoV-2 replication cycle in host cells. SARS-CoV-2 attaches to the host cells by interaction between the ACE2 receptors and spike proteins. After entry, viral uncoating process results in the release of viral genome and replication stage occurs (translation and transcription). Structural proteins are produced in intermediate compartment of endoplasmic reticulum with Golgi complex and forwarded to assembly, packaging and virus release. Compounds with antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2 are indicated in each step of virus replication cycle.