Targeting Future Pandemics, a Case for De Novo Purine Synthesis and Basic Research.

Randall C Mazzarino

doi:10.3389/fimmu.2021.694300

Abstract

We are currently experiencing a deadly novel viral pandemic with no efficacious, readily available anti-viral therapies to SARS-CoV-2. Viruses will hijack host cellular machinery, including metabolic processes. Here, I provide theory and evidence for targeting the host de novo purine synthetic pathway for broad spectrum anti-viral drug development as well as the pursuit of basic science to mitigate the risks of future novel viral outbreaks.

Highlights

Schepens Eye Research Institute of Mass Eye and Ear Infirmary and the Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
The current SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has demonstrated that mRNA and adenovirus vector vaccines required approximately one year to develop, test, and introduce to the general population in response to a novel viral threat; hardly a time scale that represents an immediate response to a crisis
No antiviral drugs have been developed against the SARS-CoV, SARS-CoV-2, or MERS-CoV strains [4]

Summary

Introduction

I provide theory and evidence for targeting the host de novo purine synthetic pathway for broad spectrum anti-viral drug development as well as the pursuit of basic science to mitigate the risks of future novel viral outbreaks. The current SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has demonstrated that mRNA and adenovirus vector vaccines required approximately one year to develop, test, and introduce to the general population in response to a novel viral threat; hardly a time scale that represents an immediate response to a crisis.

Results

Conclusion