Researchers at the Rush University Medical Center in the United States have designed a molecule that prevents the development of COVID-19 when infected with the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus. Test results in mice have shown that the artificial peptide lowers temperature, protects the lungs, improves heart function, and prevents cytokine storms. This is reported in an article published in the Journal of Neuroimmune Pharmacology. Briefly about the scientific work is described in the press release on EurekAlert !.
The coronavirus is known to bind to angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) to enter the cell. To prevent cell infection, scientists have engineered a hexapeptide (AIDS peptide) that matches the ACE2 binding domain in the coronavirus S protein. This molecule inhibits the association between coronavirus S-protein and ACE2, while not suppressing the immune system, but preventing the production of cytokines that can lead to a cytokine storm.
According to scientists, although a vaccine is available, COVID-19 has the potential to transform into a seasonal and opportunistic influenza-like phenomenon, from which 40 to 50 thousand people die in the United States every year. Therefore, it is necessary to develop drugs that reduce inflammation associated with SARS-CoV-2, as well as prevent disturbances in the respiratory and cardiovascular system.