Targeting the Molecular Action Pathways of COVID-19: A Prospective
Therapeutic Strategy
Abstract
Developing a good therapeutic drug for SARS-CoV-2 infection responsible
for the ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is highly
essential. Thus, identifying the key host molecular pathway targeted by
SARS-CoV-2 during infection is of topmost importance. Subsequent
screening of old or new drugs as well as medicinal plants targeting the
identified pathways will prove useful and hasten the discovery of a
potent COVID-19 drug. The information and data on COVID-19 were collated
from various resources and literature databases such as PubMed, Science
Direct, Wiley, Springer, Taylor and Francis, Scopus, Inflibnet, Google,
and Google Scholar. The keywords and corresponding Relevant Medical
Subject Headings (MeSH) terms used for searching databases include
COVID-19; Herbal Medicine; Molecular Pathways; Pathophysiology,
Phytotherapy, SARS-CoV-2. The study reviewed the existing literature on
molecular action pathways of SARS-CoV-2 infection. We also discussed the
ongoing SARS-CoV-2 drugs. The review also critically analyzes the
molecular signaling and prospective therapeutic targets, cellular
infection, incubation and proliferation strategy, clinical signs,
symptoms of COVID-19 infection, the current global infection, mortality
statistics, current medical management, and the prospect of therapeutic
development. Plant-derived natural compounds could be evaluated and
developed into antiviral drugs for the inhibition of coronavirus
enzymes. Some herbal medicines have also been used and found to be
therapeutically effective as secondary interventions for the prevention
and treatment of COVID-19.