Repurposing HIV Protease Inhibitors for COVID-19 Treatment ID: 2020-018

This research explores the potential of using HIV protease inhibitors Nelfinavir and Darunavir to treat COVID-19 by inhibiting the furin protease essential for viral replication.

Technology Overview

The study investigates the efficacy of Nelfinavir and Darunavir, individually and in combination, as inhibitors of furin, a protease vital for SARS-CoV-2's ability to enter and replicate within host cells. By targeting furin's role in cleaving spike proteins, these drugs could prevent the virus from binding to ACE2 receptors, thus blocking viral entry and replication. The research highlights a synergistic effect when both drugs are used together, significantly increasing furin inhibition.

Key Advantages

• Targets a crucial step in the SARS-Co
• V-2 life cycle, potentially blocking viral entry into host cells
• Exhibits a synergistic effect, increasing efficacy when drugs are used in combination
• May offer prophylactic benefits for healthcare workers exposed to the virus

Problems Addressed

• Provides a new therapeutic avenue for treating COVID-19, addressing the urgent need for effective treatments
• Reduces the risk of severe complications associated with COVID-19, such as sepsis
• Offers a faster route to approval and deployment, leveraging existing safety data

Additional Information

Technology ID: 2020-018
Sell Sheet: Download the Sell Sheet here
Market Analysis: Contact us for a more in-depth market report
Date Published: 28 March, 2025