Drug Discovery for Covid-19 – A Multidimensional Perspective

Abstract

Covid-19, a disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome corona virus (SARS-CoV) has challenged pharmaceutical science against viruses, globally. The disease has become a global pandemic beginning the race of new therapeutic strategies against novel corona virus (nCoV). Therefore, management of such pandemic issue is a need of the hour. Drug delivery refers to an approach adopted to transfer drug particles within the body to obtain a potent therapeutic effect. In the present study, an attempt has been taken to discuss about plant secondary metabolites (PSMs) and fungal bioactive compounds which are potent antiviral pharmaceutical agents. Also, a discussion about allopathic ingredient of plant secondary metabolites have also been done. The unique repository of Indian plants and versatility of fungal species provide broad spectrum to screen for pharmaceutical ingredients against novel corona virus. Further, screening of plant secondary metabolites by molecular docking can be a cost effective way to combat from novel corona virus. Thus, it can be said that, Multidimensional approach discussed herein may provide insights to combat antimicrobial resistance in the future. The present review will promote further research horizons in plants and fungal based therapeutics and a novel approach towards drug discovery thereby preventing the humans from suffering through severe adversities.