Chapter 8 Potential targeted therapy for SARS-CoV-2: host serine proteases

The current pandemic highlights the narrow therapeutic preferences for treating severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2); therefore, further effective beneficial targets are needed. Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is a human receptor for the viral spike S-glycoprotein, which binds to it before host proteases activate it. Evidence suggests that the furin enzyme cleaves the viral S protein in infected host cells in the nonendosomal pathway. S protein is stimulated by the serine protease 2 (TMPRSS2) to aid in the virus’s effective entry, given that the S has already been cut by furin. TMPRSS2 is also essential for the dispersal of the virus inside the host. This chapter will discuss the significant functions of host proteases present in host cells which are infected with SARS-CoV-2. Even though there are currently at least five highly effective vaccinations, the emergence of novel diseasecausing mutations necessitates the creation of novel helpful drugs. Targeted suppression of host proteases as a treatment for infection is possible.