Overview of host-directed antiviral targets for future research and drug development
Xiaoxia Gu, Mengzhu Zheng, Ya Gao, Shuang Lin, Xiaotian Zhang, Chunmei Chen, Hucheng Zhu, Weiguang Sun, Yonghui Zhang
Abstract
Viruses constitute a significant group of pathogens that have caused numerous fatalities and substantial economic losses in recent years, particularly with the emergence of coronaviruses. While the impact of SARS-CoV-2 appears to be diminishing in daily life, only a limited number of drugs have received approval or emergency use authorization for its treatment. Given the high mutation rate of viral genomes, host-directed agents (HDAs) have emerged as a preferred choice due to their broad applicability and lasting effectiveness. In contrast to direct-acting antivirals (DAAs), HDAs offer several advantages, including broad-spectrum antiviral activities, potential efficacy against future emerging viruses, and a lower likelihood of inducing drug resistance. In our review article, we have synthesized known host-directed antiviral targets that span diverse cellular pathways and mechanisms, shedding light on the intricate interplay between host cells and viruses. Additionally, we have provided a brief overview of the development of HDAs based on these targets. We aim for this comprehensive analysis to offer valuable perspectives and insights that can guide future antiviral research and drug development efforts. This review provides a summary of the host-directed antiviral targets identified to date, spanning a wide array of cellular pathways and processes, elucidating the intricate nature of host-virus interactions. Additionally, we have examined the advancements in inhibitors and drug research centered on these host-directed antiviral targets.