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Next-generation CRISPR tools and therapies improved by modified RNA guides

A new type of gene-editing tool, CRISPR-Cas13, has shown promise in RNA targeting. Previous studies have shown the tool as a potential treatment method for viral diseases, including coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

3 Aug 2021

Inhibition of SARS-CoV-2 replication in vitro by Losartan

A new study explores the use of Losartan to provide protection against COVID-19 pathogenesis.

3 Aug 2021

Study shows COVID-19 organ-specific outcomes depend on anti-spike glycoprotein antibodies

A recent study from the University of Rochester reveals how the biodistribution kinetics and the affinity of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) for many different organs in the human body can be affected by antibodies targeting viral spike glycoprotein. The paper is currently available on the bioRxiv* preprint server while it undergoes peer review.

3 Aug 2021

“Sybodies” protect against SARS-CoV-2 in hamster model

Researchers in China, The Netherlands, France, and Switzerland have identified synthetic nanobodies or “sybodies” that exhibit potent neutralizing activity against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) – the agent responsible for the ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.

3 Aug 2021

Open-access database could speed up repurposing of old drugs as new treatments

Researchers have created a new open-access database of information on drug candidates and how they are metabolized by the body, which could help speed up the repurposing of old drugs as new treatments.

3 Aug 2021

SARS-CoV-2 Delta and Delta AY.1 variant show similar Covaxin-induced neutralization

A new study from India suggests that the Indian-made Covaxin whole-virus inactivated vaccine against the SARS-CoV-2 retains significant efficacy against the newer delta variants of the virus.

3 Aug 2021

What is the potential of microphysiological systems in COVID-19 research?

In a recently published review article in the journal Drug Discovery Today, scientists have described the utility of human-based microphysiological systems MPSs in understanding the pathophysiology of SARS-CoV-2 infection and developing effective therapeutic interventions. Moreover, they have described the establishment of a global working group to synchronize recent developments around MPSs and COVID-19 research.

3 Aug 2021

Pfizer moves towards an oral anti-COVID-19 therapy

Researchers in the United States have described a novel antiviral agent against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) currently being evaluated in clinical trials as a treatment for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

2 Aug 2021

Existing drug may be effective in treating SARS-CoV-2

Scientists from the University of Chicago have found that the drug masitinib may be effective in treating COVID-19.

2 Aug 2021

Could novel biosensors facilitate SARS-CoV-2 antiviral drug research?

An intriguing new study presents a novel approach to biosensor-based evaluation of promising drugs that could inhibit the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) via its 3C-like protease (3CLpro), a viral protease.

2 Aug 2021

Scientists develop a potent peptide inhibitor of SARS-CoV-2 in vitro

In a recently published article in the journal Drugs in R&D, scientists have described the development and validation of a 13-amino acid peptide inhibitor of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2).

2 Aug 2021

SARS-CoV-2 Q493R protein mutation shows resistance to monoclonal antibodies

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a letter detailing a case of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in an immunocompromised patient who did not respond well to monoclonal antibody treatment. The resistance to treatment stemmed from an escape mutation on the spike protein known as Q4923R.

2 Aug 2021

Study looks at potent phytocompounds from Himalayan herbs to treat COVID-19

Considering the antiviral activity of medicinal herbs, a new study published in the journal Current Pharmacology Reports focuses on the identification of potent phytochemicals from Himalayan herbs, namely, Rheum emodi, Thymus serpyllum, and Artemisia annua, for the treatment of COVID-19.

1 Aug 2021