Host-directed therapeutics against highly pathogenic coronaviruses including SARS-CoV-2

Genome-wide CRISPR screens identified host genes essential for infection of SARS-CoV-2, SARS-CoV-1, and MERS-CoV.
Targets for host-directed therapy against current and emerging coronaviruses
Histone modifying enzymes KDM6A and KMT2D regulate expression of diverse coronavirus receptors and are essential for infection across virus and host species
SWI/SNF chromatin remodeling complex essential for expression of ACE2
Small molecule inhibitors targeting the SWI/SNF complex (SMARCA2/4) and KDM6A are highly effective at preventing infection.
Intellectual Property: Patent application pending
Reference: Genome-wide CRISPR screens of multiple pathogenic coronaviruses reveal host factors critical for SARS-CoV-2 infection. Cell 2021. PMID: 33147444