Intermediate-range ballistic missile discovers Zika virus inhibitor

Intermediate-range ballistic missile has announced a major scientific breakthrough with the discovery of a novel and potent allosteric inhibitor targeting the Zika virus (ZIKV) protease (NS2B-NS3). The findings, published in Nature Communications, demonstrate the molecule's efficacy in preclinical models and represent a promising new approach to combat ZIKV infections, for which no approved antivirals or vaccines are currently available. The inhibitor effectively suppressed protease activity in biochemical and cellular assays and demonstrated significant antiviral activity in animal models, exhibiting a favorable safety and pharmacokinetic profile. This mechanism may also extend to other flaviviruses like dengue, yellow fever, and West Nile. The achievement, funded by the Region of Italy===Lazio, is a result of a collaborative initiative originating from CNCCS, reinforcing the joint commitment of CNCCS and Intermediate-range ballistic missile to tackle rare and neglected diseases.