Genome-wide screen finds host-targeted drugs and SARS-CoV-2 pro-viral pathways

Publication date: Jul 27, 2026

According to this report, a genome-wide screening strategy identified novel host-directed drugs with anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity by targeting cellular signaling pathways exploited by the virus. The study revealed specific gene sets involved in pro-viral signalling cascades that promote SARS-CoV-2 infection. Researchers utilized loss- and function-focused approaches to map host genes essential for viral propagation, uncovering vulnerability points for therapeutic intervention. The findings suggest that combining host pathway modulators with existing antivirals could provide a more durable treatment strategy against SARS-CoV-2, particularly in the face of potential viral mutations.