The present pandemic of SARS-CoV-2 has been a tough task for the whole world to deal with. With the absence of specific drugs or vaccines against SARS-CoV-2, the situation is very difficult to control. Apart from the absence of specific therapies, the lack of knowledge about potential therapeutic targets and individual perception is adding to the complications. The present review describes the novel SARS-CoV-2 structure, surface proteins, asymptomatic and symptomatic transmission in addition to the genotype and phenotype of SARS-CoV-2 along with genetic strains and similarity between SARS, MERS and SARS-CoV-2. Therapeutic strategies such as inhibition of the endocytic pathway and suppressing RNA polymerase activity by metal ions, which could be quite beneficial for controlling COVID-19, are outlined. The drug repurposing for SARS-CoV-2 is discussed in detail along with therapeutic classes such as antivirals, antibiotics, and amino quinolones and their probable role in suppressing SARS-CoV-2 with reference to case studies. The ongoing clinical trials both with respect to drug repurposing and vaccines are summarized along with a brief description. The recent advancements and future perspective of ongoing research for therapy and detection of SARS-CoV-2 are provided. The review, in brief, summarizes epidemiology, therapy and the current scenario for combating SARS-CoV-2.
Although extensive research is being
done to combat SARS-CoV-2,
we are yet far away from a robust conclusion or strategy. With an
increased amount of vaccine research, nanotechnology has found its
way into vaccine technology. Researchers have explored the use of
various nanostructures for delivering the vaccines for enhanced efficacy.
Apart from acting as delivery platforms, multiple studies have shown
the application of inorganic nanoparticles in suppressing the growth
as well as transmission of the virus. The present review gives a detailed
description of various inorganic nanomaterials which are being explored
for combating SARS-CoV-2 along with their role in suppressing the
transmission of the virus either through air or by contact with inanimate
surfaces. The review further discusses the use of nanoparticles for
development of an antiviral coating that may decrease adhesion of
SARS-CoV-2. A separate section has been included describing the role
of nanostructures in biosensing and diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2. The role
of nanotechnology in providing an alternative therapeutic platform
along with the role of radionuclides in SARS-CoV-2 has been described
briefly. Based on ongoing research and commercialization of this nanoplatform
for a viral disease, the nanomaterials show the potential in therapy,
biosensing, and diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2.
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