A Review on SARS CoV–2: History, Origin, Morphology, and the Predicted Strategy to Control the Pandemic through Metals and Metal–Based Compounds

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ABSTRACT

The epidemic of COVID-19, which threatened the mass, globally, was brought on by the newly discovered corona virus, Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV2). The SARS-CoV-2 that caused COVID-19 has posed serious risks to people’s health, public safety and the world’s economy. Worldwide, considerable and quick research on pharmacological therapy is being conducted as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The particular characteristics of the metal centers now employed in medicinal chemistry make metallodrugs a good candidate for achieving the treatment objective. Here two key approaches are discussed for creating metal-based medicines that successfully combat SARS-CoV-2. A “Drug Repurposing” strategy and a “Discovery Approach” motivated by a pathway and based on prior knowledge may help. Selectivity and toxicity problems need to be taken into consideration while using metal compounds. Metal-related medications have long been used as antiviral medications and enzyme inhibitors, offering possible treatments for COVID-19. These display a broad range of bioactivities, showcasing incomparable advantages in pharmacology. For the SARS-CoV-2 infection, it is well established that metallodrugs play a significant role in direct antiviral therapy or in the inhibition of essential viral replication-related enzymes. They can also be used as vaccine adjuvant or as pharmaceuticals to boost the effectiveness of antiviral medications (like zinc with hydroxychloroquine). The rapid and persistent contributions of researchers from around the world during the spread of COVID-19 have led to numerous successful treatments. Several antiviral medications, anti-inflammatory medications, antibodies, corticosteroids and convalescent plasmas have been suggested for the treatment of COVID-19, thus far, although truly effective medications are still being tested. The purpose of this review is to give an overview of current developments in metal pharmacology-based COVID-19 therapy methods and the brief introduction to the usage of metal and metal-based medications currently and in the future.

Significance of the Study:

This study highlights the potential of metal-based therapeutics in addressing the COVID-19 pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2. Metals and metallodrugs offer unique bioactivities, including antiviral, enzyme-inhibitory, and immune-modulatory effects, making them promising candidates for combating the virus. By exploring strategies such as drug repurposing and pathway-driven drug discovery, the study emphasizes the importance of innovative approaches in therapeutic development. These findings contribute to global efforts in advancing effective treatments while addressing challenges like selectivity and toxicity, crucial for pandemic preparedness and future applications.

Summary of the Study:

The review examines the role of metal-based compounds in COVID-19 therapy. It outlines two strategies—drug repurposing and discovery approaches—for developing effective treatments against SARS-CoV-2. Highlighting the antiviral and immune-modulatory potential of metallodrugs, the study discusses their application as enzyme inhibitors and vaccine adjuvants. Despite challenges like toxicity and safety profiling, metal-based therapeutics hold promise for enhancing treatment efficacy. The review underscores the need for targeted drug development, synergistic therapies, and continued research to address long-term implications and future pandemics.