Coronavirus Fusion and Entry are Targets for New Therapies

The current treatments for coronavirus infections consist of monoclonal antibodies to prevent spike protein attachment and antiviral agents to block RNA-dependent RNA polymerase interrupting viral replication. Fusion and entry of coronaviruses present new opportunities for therapy and are explained and summarized in this report. Additional effective treatments for current and future coronavirus infections will be of great benefit globally. Abstract The current therapies for coronavirus infections are directed at only two targets. Monoclonal antibodies prevent virus attachment to the host cell membrane and antiviral agents attack RNA-dependent RNA polymerase to interrupt replication of the virus. The fusion and entry stage of coronavirus infection can proceed through an endocomal route of a direct plasma membrane route. Molecular virology has provided detailed knowledge of these processes and each step presents an opportunity for therapeutic intervention. Currently available drugs have been repurposed and new compounds have been identified as potential coronavirus treatment options which target fusion and entry of these viruses.