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Review
. 2023 Aug 31;24(17):13500.
doi: 10.3390/ijms241713500.

Small Molecules Targeting Viral RNA

Gregory Mathez  1 , Valeria Cagno  1
Affiliations
Review

Small Molecules Targeting Viral RNA

Gregory Mathez et al. Int J Mol Sci. .

Abstract

The majority of antivirals available target viral proteins; however, RNA is emerging as a new and promising antiviral target due to the presence of highly structured RNA in viral genomes fundamental for their replication cycle. Here, we discuss methods for the identification of RNA-targeting compounds, starting from the determination of RNA structures either from purified RNA or in living cells, followed by in silico screening on RNA and phenotypic assays to evaluate viral inhibition. Moreover, we review the small molecules known to target the programmed ribosomal frameshifting element of SARS-CoV-2, the internal ribosomal entry site of different viruses, and RNA elements of HIV.

Keywords: IRES; RNA; SARS-CoV-2; antiviral; programmed ribosomal frameshift.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare no conflict of interest.

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