Confronting the threat of SARS-CoV-2: Realities, challenges and therapeutic strategies (Review)

Abstract

The novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) appeared in2019 in Wuhan, China, and rapidly developed into a global pandemic. The disease has affected not only health care systems and economies worldwide but has also changed the lifestyles and habits of the majority of the world's population. Among the potential targets for SARS-CoV-2 therapy, the viral spike glycoprotein has been studied most intensely, due to its key role in mediating viral entry into target cells and inducing a protective antibody response in infected individuals. In the present manuscript the molecular mechanisms that are responsible for SARS-CoV-2 infection are described and a progress report on the status of SARS-CoV-2 research is provided. A brief review of the clinical symptoms of the condition and current diagnostic methods and treatment plans for SARS-CoV-2 are also presented and the progress of preclinical research into medical intervention against SARS-CoV-2 infection are discussed.

Keywords: COVID-19; coronavirus disease 2019; severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2.

Figure 1

Mechanism by which SARS-CoV-2 infects host cells. The S protein on the surface of the SARS-CoV-2, a newly emerged pathogen spreading worldwide, binds with high affinity to the human ACE2 receptor to gain entry into target cells, including those of lung and gastrointestinal tissues. SARS-CoV-2 employs the serine protease TMPRSS2 for S protein priming. The pharmaceutical agents which disrupt the COVID-19 infection of host cells are exhibited in red based on the mechanism and the specific site of action. SARS-CoV-2, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2; ACE2, angiotensin-converting enzyme 2; TMPRSS2; transmembrane protease serine 2; S, spike; COVID-19, coronavirus disease 2019; RBD, receptor binding domain.