COVID-19: The Question of Genetic Diversity and Therapeutic Intervention Approaches
January 2021
in “
Genetics and Molecular Biology
”
TLDR COVID-19 treatments and vaccines face challenges due to genetic differences in people and the virus.
The document reviewed the genetic diversity of SARS-CoV-2 and various therapeutic intervention strategies for COVID-19, emphasizing the rapid spread of the virus and the need for effective treatments and vaccines. It discussed molecular pathways targeted by therapeutic strategies, including drug repurposing and new drug development, and highlighted the potential role of nanotechnology in enhancing drug efficacy. The review addressed challenges posed by new variants and the importance of understanding viral and host genetic factors. It explored RNA interference, pharmacological strategies, and drug repurposing, noting that hydroxychloroquine showed no significant mortality reduction in a study of 1,438 patients. The document also reviewed the efficacy of various drugs and vaccines, with Pfizer/BioNTech showing 95% efficacy. It underscored the complexity of COVID-19 treatment due to genetic variability and the need for targeted therapeutic strategies.