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Innovative Small Molecule Inhibitors for Effective Treatment and Prevention of Coronavirus Infections

Clinical Area
Life & Health Sciences
COVID-19
Therapeutics
Small Molecules
College
College of Veterinary Medicine
Researchers
Sharma, Amit
Li, Pui-Kai "Tom"
Xing, Enming
Licensing Manager
Willson, Christopher
614-247-9303
Willson.62@osu.edu

T2022-357

The Need

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, has significantly impacted global health and economies. Despite vaccine efforts, issues such as vaccine hesitancy, delays in distribution, and emerging variants have highlighted the need for effective therapeutic interventions. These interventions must target critical viral mechanisms to prevent virus spread and replication, ensuring an additional layer of defense against the disease.

The Technology

Our innovative small molecule inhibitors are designed to block the interaction between the SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein and the human ACE2 receptor, a critical step in viral entry into host cells. By targeting this interaction, these molecules prevent the virus from infecting and replicating within the host. Utilizing structure-guided screening approaches, our technology accelerates drug discovery and development, offering a robust solution for treating and preventing coronavirus infections.

Commercial Applications

  • Treatment of active COVID-19 infections.
  • Prophylactic use in high-risk populations to prevent infection.
  • Inclusion in antiviral drug cocktails to enhance treatment efficacy.
  • Use in outpatient settings to reduce hospitalization rates.
  • Rapid deployment in response to emerging coronavirus variants.

Benefits/Advantages

  • Target Specificity: Precisely targets the Spike protein-ACE2 interaction, crucial for viral entry.
  • Enhanced Efficacy: Blocks viral entry effectively, reducing infection rates and viral load.
  • Broad Applicability: Suitable for both treatment and prevention of infections.
  • Accelerated Development: Structure-guided approach reduces the time required for drug discovery.
  • Reduced Resistance: Low likelihood of developing resistance due to targeted mechanism of action.