Researchers at UCLA have identified promising antiviral agents that could combat a variety of RNA viruses, including those that may lead to future pandemics. The study focuses on cyclic dinucleotide (CDN) STING agonists, particularly one called cAIMP, which has shown significant effectiveness against the Chikungunya virus in mouse models, alleviating viral arthritis. Additionally, STING agonists exhibit broad antiviral activity against respiratory viruses, including SARS-CoV-2 and Enterovirus D68. The researchers emphasize the importance of developing these agents alongside existing antivirals to better prepare for potential disease outbreaks.
The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted vulnerabilities in global health, with arboviruses, like Chikungunya and Zika, posing significant future threats. The study found that STING agonists can induce a robust antiviral response, potentially reversing harmful effects caused by viral infections on host cells. By utilizing these findings, researchers aim to create effective treatments against both arboviruses and respiratory viruses, addressing the urgent need for broad-spectrum antiviral therapies. The next steps involve integrating these agents with current antiviral strategies for enhanced preparedness during future outbreaks. The research underscores the critical need for preemptive therapeutic development in response to emerging viral threats.
