Identifying COVID-19 Drug-Sites Susceptible To Clinically Safe Zn-ejector Drugs Using Evolutionary/Physical Principles
Karen Sargsyan, Ting Chen, Cédric Grauffel, Carmay Lim
Abstract
The Covid-19 outbreak requires prompt response, but developing Covid-19-specific antivirals/vaccine takes time. Near-term alternatives are needed. Based on evolutionary and physical principles of the key factors controlling the reactivity of Zn-bound Cys, we have identified putative labile Zn-sites in Covid-19 that can be targeted by Zn-ejector drugs, leading to Zn2+ release and viral structure/function disruption. We propose assessing the efficacy of FDA-approved Zn-ejector drugs such as disulfiram combined with interferon to treat Covid-19 infected patients.
Topics & Concepts
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)DrugInjectorDisulfiramSevere acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)Virology2019-20 coronavirus outbreakPharmacologyMedicineOutbreakComputational biologyBiologyInternal medicineDiseaseEngineeringInfectious disease (medical specialty)Mechanical engineeringSARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19 ResearchCOVID-19 Clinical Research StudiesPharmacological Receptor Mechanisms and Effects