Macromolecular (pro)drugs as antiviral agents: Now against SARS CoV-2

Abstract: Activity of polymeric agents as inhibitors of viral infectivity was first documented in scientific literature almost a hundred years ago. By now it is well-established that this activity is observed for polymers diverse by structure and origin (polycations and polyanions, natural and synthetic). Polymers are rather unique in that these agents comprise the highly desired “broad spectrum antiviral agents” and have documented activity against each (re)emerging pathogen we have seen in the past two decades. Why are polymers broadly acting ? And if polymers are so good as antivirals, why have we these agents not reached the pharmacy shelves as antivirals ?

During this presentation, I will discuss the above questions using the most recent data from our lab, which includes documented activity against SARS CoV-2, and critically assess translational potential of these agents as curative/preventative antiviral agents.

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