Plant-Derived Bioactive Compounds Targeting SARS-CoV-2

The rapid worldwide transmission of SARS-CoV-2 underscored the necessity for dependable tools to diagnose, prevent, and manage. Although vaccines have been introduced on a large scale, the continual appearance of new variants raises concerns about sustained protection. Medicinal plants, long valued for their therapeutic properties, offer a potential complementary approach due to their documented antiviral, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities. Various phytochemicals have demonstrated the ability to interfere with crucial SARS-CoV-2 enzymes, including Mpro and PLpro, which are central to viral replication. However, thorough laboratory studies and clinical trials are essential to verify their potential. Expanding research in this area could support alternative or supportive strategies for managing COVID-19 and future viral threats.

Autorentext

Prof. Manal A. Hamed: Professor of Biochemistry and Former Dean of the Pharmaceutical and Drug Industries Research Institute, National Research Center, Dokki, Cairo, Egypt.