TMPRSS2, a human transmembrane protease enzyme, plays a crucial role in the spread of certain viruses, including influenza and coronaviruses. This enzyme promotes viral infection by cleaving viral glycoproteins, which helps viruses like SARS-CoV-2 and influenza A enter cells more effectively. Genetic differences in TMPRSS2 may affect people's susceptibility to COVID-19, underscoring the need for studies that consider diverse populations. Beyond infectious diseases, TMPRSS2 has also been linked to some cancers, suggesting it could be a valuable target for drug development. This review provides a summary of TMPRSS2 inhibitors currently under study, with some already in clinical trials to test their effectiveness against viral infections. As we uncover more about TMPRSS2's role in pathogenesis, it could open new doors for therapies to combat future outbreaks.
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http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/biom15010075 | DOI Listing |
Viruses
December 2024
Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada.
Treatment options for viral infections are limited and viruses have proven adept at evolving resistance to many existing therapies, highlighting a significant vulnerability in our defenses. In response to this challenge, we explored the modulation of cellular RNA metabolic processes as an alternative paradigm to antiviral development. Previously, the small molecule 5342191 was identified as a potent inhibitor of HIV-1 replication by altering viral RNA accumulation at doses that minimally affect host gene expression.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFViruses
December 2024
Smorodintsev Research Institute of Influenza, 197376 Saint Petersburg, Russia.
Human seasonal coronaviruses (hCoVs) are a group of viruses that affect the upper respiratory tract. While seasonal patterns and the annual variability of predominant hCoV species are well-documented, their genetic and species diversity in St. Petersburg and across Russia remains largely unexplored.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFPathogens
January 2025
Center for Advanced Molecular Detection, 59th Medical Wing/Science & Technology, Joint Base San Antonio, Lackland, TX 78236, USA.
Background: Respiratory viral infections are a major public health challenge and the most diagnosed medical condition, particularly for individuals living in close proximity, like military personnel. We compared the sensitivity and specificity of the Biomeme Franklin and Truelab RT-PCR thermocyclers to determine which platform is more sensitive and specific at detecting SARS-CoV-2 and influenza A and B viruses.
Methodology: RNA extracted from nasopharyngeal swabs of infected and uninfected individuals was tested on the Biomeme Franklin at Lackland and the Truelab at Wright Patterson Air Force bases.
Microorganisms
January 2025
Zentrum für Notfallmedizin, Universitätsmedizin Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany.
Acute respiratory infections are a significant challenge in primary care and hospital settings. Viruses are the most common etiology and the overlapping symptomatology among major respiratory viruses, such as influenza, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, and respiratory syncytial virus, requires the use of diagnostic tests that deliver early and accurate results. With the increasing availability of rapid antigen tests (RATS), it is tempting to prefer them over polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFBiomolecules
January 2025
Graduate Program of Biosystems, Centro de Ciências Naturais e Humanas, Universidade Federal do ABC (UFABC), São Bernardo do Campo, São Paulo 09606-045, Brazil.
TMPRSS2, a human transmembrane protease enzyme, plays a crucial role in the spread of certain viruses, including influenza and coronaviruses. This enzyme promotes viral infection by cleaving viral glycoproteins, which helps viruses like SARS-CoV-2 and influenza A enter cells more effectively. Genetic differences in TMPRSS2 may affect people's susceptibility to COVID-19, underscoring the need for studies that consider diverse populations.
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