Antiviral Drug Discovery Targeting Zika Virus Protease
Abstract
Zika virus, transmitted primarily by mosquitos, could become endemic in the tropical and subtropical regions including the southern states and territories of the United States. It could cause catastrophic consequences to the public health, such as microcephaly (small brain/head) of newborns. However, there are no antiviral drugs or vaccines for Zika infection. Zika virus protease (ZVpro) is a viral protein that is essential for viral replication. ZVpro is therefore a drug target. The overall goal of this project is to use a combination of rational inhibitor design, medicinal chemistry, X-ray crystallography and antiviral activity testing to discover small-molecule inhibitors of ZVpro, which are potential drug candidates for Zika infection. During the 3rd funding period, although the overall progress has been delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we have produced good results showing our potent ZVpro inhibitors are non-cytotoxic and have strong anti-ZIKV activity. A total of 5 research articles and 1 patent application have been published for the 3 funding years. We will perform the experiments in accordance with the approved SOW to achieve the goals of the project in the next funding (no-cost-extension) period.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 2021
- Accession Number
- AD1152334
Entities
People
- Yongcheng Song
Organizations
- Baylor College of Medicine