Scientific publications
2024Journal articleEnglish
Repurposing of Plant-based Antiviral Molecules for the Treatment ofCOVID-19 (opens in a new tab)
Authors
University of Yaoundé I
Cluster University Srinagar
Jabeena Khazir
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Scientific publications
Jabeena Khazir
Nusrat Shafi
Sajad Ahmed
Sumit G. Gandhi
Rakesh Thakur
Manzoor Hussain
Other affiliations: Guru Nanak Dev University
Tariq Maqbool* (Corresponding author)
Bilal Ahmad Mir* (Corresponding author)
Latif Ahmad Peer* (Corresponding author)
Sadhana Babbar
Vijay Rani Rajpal* (Corresponding author)
Shabir Ahmad Mir
Current Topics in Medicinal Chemistry
Abstract: COVID-19, stemming from SARS-CoV-2, poses a formidable threat to global healthcare, with a staggering 77 million confirmed cases and 690,067 deaths recorded till Decem-ber 24, 2023. Given the absence of specific drugs for this viral infection, the exploration of novel antiviral compounds becomes imperative. High-throughput technologies are actively engaged in drug discovery, and there is a parallel effort to repurpose plant-based molecules with established antiviral properties. In this context, the review meticulously delves into the potential of plant-based folk remedies and existing molecules. These substances have showcased substantial viral inhibition in diverse in vivo, in silico, and in vitro studies, particularly against critical viral protein targets, including SARS-CoV-2. The findings position these plant-based molecules as promising antiviral drug candidates for the swift advancement of treatments for COVID-19. It is noteworthy that the inherent attributes of these plant-based molecules, such as their natural origin, potency, safety, and cost-effectiveness, contribute to their appeal as lead candidates. The review advocates for further exploration through comprehensive in vivo studies conducted on animal models, em-phasizing the potential of plant-based compounds to help in the ongoing quest to develop effec-tive antivirals against COVID-19.