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New Proteins Uncovered as Targets for COVID Antivirals

9/6/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Scientists at Scripps Research identified key human proteins necessary for SARS-CoV-2 replication through genome-wide siRNA screening.
The study in PLOS Biology found 32 proteins critical for early infection and 27 for later stages.
Perlecan and BIRC2 emerged as potential drug targets, with perlecan blocking viral entry and BIRC2 reducing viral loads.
Seventeen proteins were common across coronaviruses, indicating potential for broad-spectrum antiviral therapies.
Future research will investigate these proteins' roles in other respiratory viruses, including influenza and RSV.

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Story summary

Scientists at Scripps Research identified key human proteins necessary for SARS-CoV-2 replication through genome-wide siRNA screening.
The study in PLOS Biology found 32 proteins critical for early infection and 27 for later stages.
Perlecan and BIRC2 emerged as potential drug targets, with perlecan blocking viral entry and BIRC2 reducing viral loads.
Seventeen proteins were common across coronaviruses, indicating potential for broad-spectrum antiviral therapies.
Future research will investigate these proteins' roles in other respiratory viruses, including influenza and RSV.