Evaluation of novel antiviral compounds against SARS-CoV-2

SARS-CoV-2 appears to be poised to become endemic, meaning that we can expect continuous risk of exposure to infection. Despite highly effective vaccines, people still become infected, and some people become severely ill. Antivirals that can reduce symptoms and decrease the levels and duration of infection can aid in reducing onward transmission of the virus. As part of a Canadian antiviral development pipeline led by Applied Pharmaceutical Innovation, candidate antivirals identified in high throughput screens will be evaluated for their activity against SARS-CoV-2 in live virus assays using cell culture models. Compounds with high antiviral activity will then be further investigated for their effectiveness using small animal models of SARS-CoV-2. Effectiveness in small animal models serves as proof-of-concept for further development, including moving the compounds into clinical trials. Identification and verification of the effectiveness of novel antivirals remains a key component of preparing a long-term strategy for dealing with SARS-CoV-2.

Faculty Supervisor:

Darryl Falzarano

Student:

Partner:

Applied Pharmaceutical Innovation

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Professional, scientific and technical services; Retail trade

University:

University of Saskatchewan

Program: