Natural Products as Potential Therapeutic Agents for SARS-CoV-2: A Medicinal Chemistry Perspective

Coronavirus is a single-stranded RNA virus discovered by virologist David Tyrrell in 1960. Till now seven human corona viruses have been identified including HCoV-229E, HCoV-OC43, HCoV-NL63, HCoV-HKU1, SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2. In the present scenario, the SARS-CoV-2 outbreak causing SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, became the most serious public health emergency of the century worldwide. Natural products have long history and advantages for the drug discovery process. Almost 80% of drugs present in market are evolved from the natural resources. With the outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, natural product chemists have made significant efforts for the identification of natural molecules which can be effective against the SARS-CoV-2. In current compilation we have discussed in vitro and in vivo anti-viral potential of natural product-based leads for the treatment of SARS-CoV-2. We have classified these leads in different classes of natural products such as alkaloids, terpenoids, flavonoids, polyphenols, quinones, cannabinoids, steroids, glucosinolates, diarylheptanoids, etc. and discussed the efficacy and mode of action of these natural molecules. The present review will surely opens new direction in future for the development of promising drug candidates, particularly from the natural origin against coronaviruses and other viral diseases.

Automated summary

This review discusses the potential of using natural product-based drugs to fight against SARS-CoV-2. Seven human coronaviruses have been identified, and natural products play an important role in drug discovery.