Breakthrough Bispecific Inhibitor Targets Multiple Coronaviruses, Including Resistant Strains

Researchers from the University of Hong Kong and Sichuan University have developed an innovative bispecific inhibitor, named TMP1, capable of fighting a broad spectrum of human-infecting coronaviruses. Significantly, this novel compound can target viruses resistant to current treatments like Paxlovid, offering a promising new avenue for antiviral therapy. The inhibitor works by simultaneously targeting two crucial viral and host factors: the viral main protease (M^pro) and the host enzyme TMPRSS2, which facilitates viral entry into human cells. Using advanced chemical synthesis techniques, scientists optimized small molecules to create TMP1, demonstrating its stability in vivo and potent antiviral efficacy against major coronaviruses, including SARS-CoV-2, SARS-CoV-1, and MERS-CoV. Notably, TMP1 was effective in protecting hamsters from SARS-CoV-2 transmission and showed resilience against drug-resistant viral mutants. This bispecific approach marks a significant advancement, potentially overcoming limitations of current mono-target drugs and reducing the chances of resistance development. The study, published in Nature Communications, underscores the potential for next-generation antivirals that provide more comprehensive protection against existing and emerging coronaviruses.