A Comprehensive Review About the Molecular Structure of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2): Insights into Natural Products Against COVID-19

Author: mycolabadmin
2021-10-21
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Summary

This research provides a comprehensive overview of SARS-CoV-2’s molecular structure and potential natural treatments for COVID-19. The study examines how various compounds from plants, fungi, algae and scorpion venom could help fight the virus. Impact on everyday life includes: – Identification of natural compounds that could be developed into new COVID-19 treatments – Better understanding of how the virus works, leading to more effective therapeutic strategies – Potential for developing natural supplements to support immune function against COVID-19 – Discovery of alternative treatment options for those who cannot receive vaccines – Insights into how natural products could help manage COVID-19 symptoms

Background

In 2019, the world suffered from the emergence of COVID-19 infection caused by SARS-CoV-2, one of the most difficult pandemics in recent history with millions of confirmed deaths worldwide. Coronaviruses are single-stranded RNA viruses that can infect both animals and humans. The virus was first investigated in 1966 and named ‘coronavirus’ due to its crown-like appearance under electron microscopy.

Objective

This review aims to present the classification and detailed explanation of SARS-CoV-2 molecular characteristics and structure-function relationships. It discusses all currently available crystal structures of different SARS-CoV-2 proteins and emphasizes the crystal structure of different virus proteins and binding modes of their ligands. Additionally, it examines various therapeutic approaches for COVID-19 treatment, available vaccinations, and natural compounds from algae, fungi, plants, and scorpion venom as potential antiviral agents.

Results

The review identified multiple promising natural compounds with antiviral properties against SARS-CoV-2, including compounds from fungi, algae, plants and scorpion venom. Several vaccines have been developed with varying efficacy rates. The molecular structure analysis revealed key viral proteins and binding sites that could serve as therapeutic targets. Natural products showed potential in regulating inflammatory responses and interfering with viral development in host cells.

Conclusion

While vaccines have been developed, global health concerns about the pandemic are expected to continue. Alternative therapeutic approaches using natural compounds show promise but require further clinical validation. The detailed molecular understanding of SARS-CoV-2 has helped in drug discovery, but viral mutations present ongoing challenges. Natural products may serve as viable therapeutic agents but should only be used under medical supervision.

Published in:Pharmaceutics,
Study Type:Review,
Source: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13111759