Dual-Acting Molecules Against Influenza Virus
Collaboration with NAS RA
Our AI-based drug discovery platform allows us to design small molecules able to modulate two different targets thought to be responsible for the certain disease.
The one-ligand-one-target-one-disease approach is a tested drug design principle that has been successfully implemented in the development of therapeutic agents for human and veterinary diseases. However, the fact is that drugs usually interact with more than one target, so they are pleiotropic. It could be the cause of side effects, however, pleiotropy is a two-edged sword as it may increase the therapeutic effect because many diseases are not caused by a defect in one specific target but based on a plethora of targets.
Our AI-based drug discovery platform allows us to design small molecules able to modulate two different targets thought to be responsible for certain diseases. We currently utilize our platform to develop dual-acting drug candidates against influenza A and B viruses. Our AI-designed molecules simultaneously act on two different viral proteins essential for the viral life cycle, thereby increasing the therapeutic effect and resistance barrier for the new class of antivirals.
About
Dual-Acting Molecules Against Influenza Virus
Disease Contagion
There are 4 types of seasonal influenza viruses, types A, B, C and D. Influenza A and B viruses circulate and cause seasonal epidemics of disease. Illnesses range from mild to severe and even death.
Disease Mortality
Hospitalization and death occur mainly among high risk groups. Worldwide, these annual epidemics are estimated to result in about 3 to 5 million cases of severe illness, and about 290 000 to 650 000 respiratory deaths.
Existing Drugs
Although seasonal vaccines and antiviral drugs are available, there is a constant need for developing new anti-influenza drugs due to resistance and high genetic variability issues observed among new Influenza virus strains.