Therapies for coronaviruses. Part 2: Inhibitors of intracellular life cycle.
BACKGROUND
Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) coronavirus emerged from an animal reservoir in 2002 and has the potential to reemerge, as shown by the occurrence of non-laboratory-associated new cases in the winter of 2003. In the absence of a vaccine, broad spectrum anticoronaviral medications are needed.


OBJECTIVE
Anticoronavirals targeting viral entry were reviewed in part I. Here we review anticoronaviral therapies directed against the intracellular life cycle, with an emphasis on allowed patents and pending patents.


METHODS
The published literature, in particular, patent publications is searched for relevant documents. The information is organized and critiqued.


CONCLUSIONS
Many promising anticoronaviral strategies are identified. Monoclonal antibodies, protease inhibitors, interferon-based drugs and nucleic-acid based antivirals are most advanced, each having its own advantages and disadvantages. A multi-pronged approach, keeping all venues open, is advocated.
Jack D Weiler Hospital, Montefiore Medical Center, Department of Pathology, 1825 Eastchester Road, Bronx, NY 10461, USA. ttong@montefiore.org
Tommy R
TR
Tong
D000818:Animals; D000998:Antiviral Agents / Q000494:pharmacology*; D017934:Coronavirus / Q000187:drug effects*; D018352:Coronavirus Infections / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000821:virology; D006801:Humans; D010330:Patents as Topic; D045473:Severe acute respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus / Q000187:drug effects; D045169:Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000821:virology
D000998:Antiviral Agents