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VolkswagenStiftung sponsors a project by UdS, HIPS, and HZI to develop broadly effective antiviral agents
## The Importance of Broad-Spectrum Antiviral AgentsNew, broadly effective antiviral agents are considered a crucial component of pandemic preparedness. A project led by Professor Alexander Titz from the University of Saarland (UdS) and Professor Christian Sieben from the Helmholtz Center for Infection Research (HZI) aims to fill a significant gap in pandemic preparedness through the development of such agents.### Understanding Viral InfectionsMany viruses exploit host cell sugar molecules to attach themselves to the cell surface, initiating the infection process. This binding step is common among various viruses, making it a target for developing broadly effective antiviral agents. The researchers plan to create an innovative platform for developing inhibitors that impede viral entry, particularly targeting respiratory viruses and other pathogens with pandemic potential.### Sialomimetics: The Innovative ApproachThe research team is employing a novel strategy by designing molecules known as sialomimetics. These molecules mimic natural sugar structures on human cell surfaces, which are critical for many viral infections. Specifically, sialic acids present on cell surfaces act as anchor points for infection by influenza and coronaviruses. By creating molecules that bind more effectively to viral proteins than natural sugar chains, the researchers aim to disrupt this binding and obstruct the attachment of viruses to cells.### Progress and Future GoalsIn the first funding phase from VolkswagenStiftung, promising drug candidates have already been identified for further optimization. Alexander Titz remarked, “Currently, specific medications are available for only a few viruses. There are no broad-spectrum antibiotics for viruses.” The research focuses on blocking the initial step of infection for multiple viruses simultaneously, which is vital for creating broadly effective therapies.Professor Christian Sieben emphasized the significance of the latest funding: “With renewed support from VolkswagenStiftung, we can advance the development of new antiviral agents and expand our understanding of the interaction between viruses and human cells.” The ultimate objective is to create a drug platform that can be utilized against not only influenza and coronaviruses but also future pandemics caused by unknown viruses.### About the Helmholtz Institute for Pharmaceutical Research SaarlandFounded in 2009 by HZI and the University of Saarland, the Helmholtz Institute for Pharmaceutical Research Saarland (HIPS) in Saarbrücken is dedicated to developing experimental and computational approaches to identify new drugs against infectious diseases. The institute focuses on microbial natural products from soil bacteria, human microbiota, and innovative medical chemistry.### ConclusionThe collaboration between UdS and HZI under the auspices of VolkswagenStiftung is a significant step towards advancing antiviral research. By blocking the entry of viruses into cells, the researchers are on a path to developing effective antiviral therapies that could greatly enhance pandemic preparedness and public health responses worldwide.Further Information:
Press release on the HZI website
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Prof. Alexander Titz and Prof. Christian Sieben receive funding from VolkswagenStiftung to develop broad-spectrum antiviral agents…
Copyright: HIPS/Dietze; HZI/Meier
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