Scientists from the School of Molecular Engineering at the University of Chicago (USA) have released an inspiring message.
According to Gadin.Net, researchers have found one of the weak points of the new type of coronavirus. This point, called the Mpro protease, is involved in the mechanism by which the virus multiplies in the body.
The researchers said that a previously unexplored part of the protease had been found, which could be the point of application of effective drugs against COVID-19. And they offered an immediate solution: to use a drug molecule called ebselen to fight coronavirus infection. The effect of this molecule in the treatment of hearing loss, tinnitus and bipolar disorder is currently being studied.
Could such a finding lead to a cure for coronavirus?
Well-known virologist, EIMartsinovsky, Doctor of Medical Sciences of Sechenov University, corresponding member of the Russian Academy of Sciences Alexander Lukashev spoke about this:
"Protease, as well as polymerase, are enzymes used to multiply various viruses. They have long been used to treat many viruses. Finding a molecule that acts on these enzymes and slows down the virus's proliferation is the first step in a long way. It is very good to find such a molecule, but there are still conditions that must be met. This molecule must have low toxicity and good properties when it enters the body - it must be properly distributed, metabolized and excreted. In addition to meeting all of these parameters, you must undergo clinical trials of Phases 1, 2, and 3, which take at least a year and cost millions of dollars.
Experience with other drugs shows that there is a 90% chance to pass each subsequent stage. In any case, this is a useful finding. The more progress is made in the study of SARS-CoV-2, the closer humanity will be to the ability to control a new infection. ”