Ligand-based drug repurposing strategy identified SARS-CoV-2 RNA G-quadruplex binders

Moraca F.;Marzano S.;D'Amico F.;Lupia A.;Di Fonzo S.;Vertecchi E.;Salvati E.;Di Porzio A.;Catalanotti B.;Randazzo A.;Pagano B.;Amato J.

2022-01-01

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Abstract

The single-stranded RNA genome of SARS-CoV-2 contains some G-quadruplex-forming G-rich elements which are putative drug targets. Here, we performed a ligand-based pharmacophore virtual screening of FDA approved drugs to find candidates targeting such RNA structures. Further in silico and in vitro assays identified three drugs as emerging SARS-CoV-2 RNA G-quadruplex binders.