University of Pittsburgh researchers have identified a specific Fbxw7 targeting motif on SARS-CoV-2 RNA dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) capable of reducing the replication of SARS-CoV-2 and which could potentially be a vaccination against COVID-19 and other coronaviruses.
Description
COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. Since it first emerged in late 2019, SARS-CoV-2 has led to a global pandemic resulting in millions of deaths, hospitalizations, and for some individuals, severe lingering effects (Long COVID). While vaccines, can prevent serious disease and antivirals, and monoclonal antibodies have been approved to treat patients with COVID-19, as the virus evolves these approaches become less effective. Identifying new vaccines preventing the replication of SARS-CoV-2 could expand the armamentarium available to medics in reducing the global impact on this disease on health and economics.
Applications
Universal vaccine for COVID-19 • Vaccines for other coronaviruses
Advantages
RdRp is an essential enzyme for viral RNA replication. Most of the current treatments for COVID-19 inhibit the polymerase activity of RdRp thus preventing replication of the virus and other downstream effects. This novel approach investigates the inhibition of an upstream kinase, preventing activation of RdRp. A specific Fbxw7 targeting motif has been identified on RdRp of SARS-CoV-2. This motif recognizes a phosphorylation site on the nsp12 protein thought to be needed for RdRp activity. Targeting this motif could reduce RdRp activity and prevent viral replication , thereby acting as a vaccine. Since this RdRp motif is conserved across other coronaviruses, the potential exists for a universal vaccine.
Invention Readiness
Current research has shown Fbxw7 can target a motif on RdRp on SARS-CoV-2 suggesting it may be a potential vaccination approach to prevent viral replication. Work is ongoing to explore this approach and shows promising results. Development of a vaccine approach targeting RdRp will have the potential to target other coronaviruses and could play a role in managing future pandemics.
IP Status
https://patents.google.com/patent/WO2023215827A1
