Targeting Chikungunya virus by computational approaches: from viral biology to the development of therapeutic strategies

Introduction: Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is the causative agent of Chikungunya fever, a reemerging infectious disease. This disease can cause severe manifestations that persist for months or years after acute infection and alas, there are no antiviral drugs or vaccines available. Hence, the development of new therapeutic approaches is necessary. Areas covered: We review how computational tools have provided insights on CHIKV proteins and examine the advances in the development of potential and novel antiviral drugs. A literature search was performed using PubMed and ScienceDirect databases up to April 2019. Expert opinion: Computational approaches are valuable for gaining insights into CHIKV proteins and for the design of new anti-CHIKV agents. The collaboration between computational and experimental researchers should be strengthened so that new agents can be developed in a more rational manner. Computer-aided tools could assist in the discovery and development of safer and more efficacious novel antiviral agents from unexplored chemical spaces. Technological advances dictate that this is likely to emerge soon, thus boosting interest and research on CHIKV biology and drug, vaccine and diagnostics development.