2026-10-12T13:24:18Z https://api.figshare.com/v2/oai

oai:figshare.com:article/32640156 2026-10-01T16:33:42Z portal_1172 item_type_8 month_year_10_2026

Development of inhaled MPro inhibitors for the treatment of respiratory viral infections. Emma Clyde-Allen (22312909) PUREID: 613437095 MPro Inhibitors respiratory hCoV infections SARS MPro antiviral drug The Worldwide outbreak of highly infectious coronavirus disease in 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), resulted in a Global pandemic that is impacting lives years after the initial detection of the virus. Today’s figures reveal that this virus has infected in every corner of the globe with over 6.5 million reported deaths. Furthermore, this outbreak highlighted how poorly prepared healthcare systems were across the globe and how few effective treatments were available. Following the 2003 SARS epidemic, considerable research was conducted to develop a deeper understanding of the processes that lead to viral entry and infection of respiratory host cells. Analysis of the viral genome led to the identification of a cysteine protease, known as 3-chymotrypsin-like protease (3CLpro or commonly referred to as Main Protease, MPro). MPro is highly conserved among coronaviruses and MPro inhibition blocks viral replication, consequently, lowering viral load and reducing disease severity. The aim of this project is to develop a potent and selective MPro small molecule inhibitor with physicochemical properties compatible with inhaled delivery. COVID-19 is a respiratory disease, and target-specific delivery to the lungs will maximise efficacy and enable a more rapid onset of action with less systemic exposure. Novel coronaviruses are likely to continue to emerge. Targeting a viral protein highly conserved among all coronaviruses, such as MPro, should address both the current pandemic and any future coronavirus outbreaks.<br><br><i>Thesis is embargoed until 31 December 2027. </i> 2026-10-01T16:33:42Z Text Thesis 10.17034/32640156.v1 https://figshare.com/articles/thesis/Development_of_inhaled_MPro_inhibitors_for_the_treatment_of_respiratory_viral_infections_/32640156 All Rights Reserved Open Access after 2027-12-31