Virus is always a threat to human, including influenza virus, enterovirus, and SARS-CoV-2, the cause of COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, development of board spectrum antiviral drugs is one of the strategies against viruses. We utilized “EditCell Virology Platform” to identify the host cellular factors which are required for virus replication. Furthermore, these cellular factors can be used as targets to develop antivirals by inhibiting or blocking its mediated pathway to achieve the antiviral effects. According to our previous studies, we identified several novel host factors critical to RNA virus replication. We further discovered that two FDA-approved drugs, which target to this host factor, could reduce the viral loads of enterovirus and coronavirus, including SARS-CoV-2. In addition to in vitro validation, we also have experience for conducting animal research. Therefore, it is a useful platform to develop board spectrum antiviral drugs against various viruses.

There are still many viruses treat to human, but no effective antivirals against them. The “EditCell Virology Platform” can be used to screen the important factors involved in virus replication, and then these factors can serve as targets for antiviral development. Furthermore, we can verify the antiviral effects of the candidates in vitro and in vivo to identify effective antivirals against viruses. Based on our previous studies, we have successfully determined two FDA-approved drugs can reduce viral load of SARS-CoV-2. Now, we are seeking collaborations with pharmaceutical company for clinical trials.

The development of antiviral is important for human to fight virus infection, and it is also closely related to global economy. Moreover, the rising number of COVID-19 deaths caused by SARS-CoV-2 around the world. COVID-19 pandemics is not only a threat to human lives, but also global economy. Therefore, the research and development of antivirals are important for application of biomedical or pharmaceutical industries and clinical treatment in the future.