A Perspective on Emerging Therapeutic Interventions for COVID-19.

Coronaviruses are enveloped positive-sense RNA viruses with an unusual large RNA genome and a unique replication mechanism, which are characterized by club-like spikes that protrude from their surface. An outbreak of a novel coronavirus 2019 infection has posed significant threat to the health and economies in the whole world. This article reviewed the viral replication, pathogenicity, prevention and treatment strategies. With a lack of approved treatment options for this virus, alternative approaches to control the spread of disease is in urgent need. This article also covers some management strategies which may be applied to this virus outbreak. Ongoing clinical studies related to possible treatments for COVID-19, potential vaccines, and alternative medication such as natural compounds are also discussed.

Introduction

The novel human coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) seems emerged in December 2019 in Wuhan, China (1, 2). Later, on January 12, 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) named it the 2019 novel Coronavirus (nCoV) and announced as a pandemic outbreak. SARS-CoV-2 is a member of β-coronaviruses. It is genetically related to the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome—Human coronavirus (SARS-CoV) and the Middle-East Respiratory Syndrome—Human coronavirus MERS-CoV (3–5).

The pandemic SARS-CoV-2 outbreak has caused infection in over 8,000,000 individuals and over 400,000 deaths in more than 200 countries across the world (6, 7). The number of infected cases is increasing at an alarming rate. The emergence of the SARS-COV-2 disease requires exploration and elucidation for a better understanding of its sources, production, transmission mechanism, prevention, management, and control (8).

Infection with this virus leads to respiratory damage, which can progress to pneumonia or damage to the whole body. The structure of the virus was identified in record time, and the mechanisms of infection were largely deciphered. These are the first steps to develop the most important infection control measures, in addition to prevention and hygiene (9).

This review highlights the latest knowledge on the sources, transmission, pathogenesis, prevention, and potential therapeutic control of SARS-COV-2/ COVID-19 disease. Literature review was performed to identify relevant articles published in English by April 1, 2020. The search terms used were: SARS-CoV-2, COVID-19, MERS-CoV, SARS-CoV, treatment, pharmacology, and efficacy. All types of articles were included. Clinical trials have been identified using the name COVID-19 disease on an index of studies into novel coronavirus pneumonia in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (10) and ClinicalTrials.gov.

Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19): A Brief Overview

SARS-CoV-2 is a β-coronavirus with an envelope and genetic information in the form of an RNA. The non-structural proteins of SARS-CoV-2 are RNA polymerase, helicase, and proteases similar to 3-chemotrypsin and papain, and could be therapeutic targets. Surround the RNA molecule are the viral structural proteins, the most important of which is the S protein, which has the function of binding to the conversion enzyme of angiotensinogen II (ECA2), acting as a receptor in the case of SARS-CoV-2 and SARS viruses (11). In addition, protein S is modified by TMPRSS2 (transmembrane proteinase-serine 2), a modification that facilitates the entry of viral particles into the cell (12–14). The COVID-19 outbreak has been traced from live animals in “wet markets” in South China. In addition, reports indicated that SARS-CoV-2 may be transmitted to humans via pangolins (15, 16) or other wild animals [(17, 18); Figure 1].

Figure 1

Probable sources of SARS-CoV-2 leading to symptoms, and prevention tips.

The pathophysiological characteristics and the spreading mechanism of SARS-COV-2 remaining unclear. SARS-CoV-2 is mostly transmitted via inhalation (19) as the lung epithelial cells are the primary target of the virus.

SARS-COV-2 may be manifested as an asymptomatic infection or mild to severe pneumonia (20). COVID-19 patients may experience abnormal respiratory findings, higher leukocyte numbers, and increased levels of plasma pro-inflammatory cytokines. It may also cause leucopenia, increased C-reactive protein, a high erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and high levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines [i.e., IL-2, IL-7, IL-10, GCSF, IP10, MCP1, MIP1α, and TNFα; (21)], a high serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST) or alanine aminotransferase (ALT), procalcitonin and ferritin levels (21, 22), decreased lymphocytes, elevated fibrinogen, neutrophil, lactic dehydrogenase, fibrinogen, and acute hypoxic respiratory failure (23). These findings suggest that immunopathology may also have a crucial role in the development of disease severity [(24, 25); Figure 2].

Figure 2

The systemic and respiratory disorders caused by SARS-COV-2 infection. The incubation period of SARS-COV-2 infection is ~5.2 days. There are general similarities in the symptoms between SARS-COV-2 and previous β-coronavirus. However, SARS-COV-2 shows some unique clinical features that include the targeting of the lower airway as evident by upper respiratory tract symptoms like rhinorrhea, sneezing, and sore throat. ACE2, angiotensin-converting enzyme 2; ssRNA virus, single-stranded RNA virus; RDRP, RNA-Dependent RNA Polymerase Gene; IL-1, interleukin 1; IL-6, interleukin-6; TNF-α, tumor necrosis alpha; PO2, partial pressure of oxygen; SNS, sympathetic nervous system; HR, heart rate; SIRS, systemic inflammatory response syndrome.

There is evidence that the SARS-CoV-2 virus could be transmitted by the fecal-oral route, not just by coughing and sneezing (26). Fecal viral RNA could be detected in some patients (27). Diarrhea is not the only gastrointestinal disorder described in COVID-19 diseases. Nausea and vomiting, discomfort or abdominal pain, and mild or moderate damage of the liver and pancreas (organs expressing ACE2) were also observed (28).

In a COVID-19 laboratory diagnosis, serological tests use enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) or Western blotting that detects specific SARS-CoV-2 proteins, while molecular approaches are based on RT-PCR or Northern blot hybridization targeting specific SARS-CoV-2 genes (25). Direct immunofluorescence assay (IFA) is used to detect viral antigens present in the specimen, whereas the total lymphocyte count (TLC) and chest CT examination can also be used in SARS-CoV-2 infections (23). Some diagnostic features along with the treatment targets are depicted in Figure 3.

Figure 3

Some important diagnostic and therapeutic targets for SARS-CoV-2 infection. ACE2, angiotensin-converting enzyme 2; R, receptor; IL, interleukin; GCSF, granulocyte colony-stimulating factor; IP-10, interferon gamma-induced protein 10; TNF-α, tumor necrosis factor alpha; MIP1, Macrophage Inflammatory Protein 1; MCP-1, monocyte chemotactic protein-1; ALT, alanine transaminase; AST, aspartate transaminase; CRP, C-reactive protein.

Potential Therapeutic Targets and Treatments Using Drugs: Where we Stand Now

COVID-19 treatment should primarily aim for the rapid disappearance of symptoms, limiting interpersonal transmission and amelioration of severe forms at risk of death (29).

An effective treatment for SAR-CoV-2 can follow one of the following strategies (30): (i) Inhibition of functional enzymes or proteins, essential for the survival of the virus; (ii) Inhibition of viral structural proteins, preventing interaction with human cells or virion formation; (iii) Stimulating the immunity of the human host; and (iv) Inhibition of human proteins that act as receptors for the virus. For possible treatments for SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus infection, there are several molecules that could be effective against SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus in cell culture, animal, and early human trials [(31); Figure 4 and Table 1].

Figure 4

Summarized scheme with proposed acting targets of anti-SARS-CoV-2 in the replication cycle of the virus. Inhibitors of cell entry: inhibitors of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2Is) and antimalarial drugs: chloroquine, hydroxychloroquine; inhibitors of transmembrane protease/serine subfamily member 2 (TMPRSS2): camostate; Inhibitors of replication, membrane fusion, and assembly of SARS-CoV-2: remdesivir, lopinavir/ritonavir combination, umifenovir; humanized monoclonal antibody IgG1 anti-human receptor for interleukin-6 (IL-6): tocilizumab.

Table 1

The main drug classes used as potential treatments in COVID-19.

Drug	Class	Rationale use	Clinical experience	Observations
(Hydroxy)chloroquine	Antimalarial	Changes the pH of the cell membrane surface and thus inhibits the fusion of the virus with the cell membrane. Inhibits nucleic acid replication, glycosylation of viral proteins, assembly of the virus, and release of the virus from the infected cell.	In vitro activity against SARS-CoV-2, as well as some positive results in the treatment of patients with COVID-19 (32). A recent study showed faster virus clearance in patients with COVID-19 who received hydroxychloroquine (33). Initial dose: 600 mg (of chloroquine) followed by 300 mg (of chloroquine) 12 h later on day 1, then 300 mg (of chloroquine) twice daily on days 2–5.	It has been widely used in long-term treatments in rheumatology, without generating significant side effects.
Camostat	Inhibits TMPRSS2 protease	Inhibition of cell entry Prevents SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus infection	An in vitro study in a mouse model demonstrated the efficacy of camostat in protecting mice from death from a lethal SARS-CoV infection with a 60% survival rate (34). It is considered that doses of 600 mg (200 mg, three times) of camostat daily are expected to reduce SARS-CoV-2 infection; but human clinical trials are needed (35).	Mesylate camostat, approved in the treatment of inflammation of the pancreas in Japan.
Remdesivir	Antiviral for Ebola	Inhibits RNA-dependent RNA polymerase, prematurely blocking RNA transcription.	Broad antiviral spectrum; Efficacy against coronaviruses, both in vitro and in vivo studies; The safety profile has been demonstrated in Ebola studies; Superior efficacy of the Lopinavir/Ritonavir/IFNbeta combination in animal model studies. Adults and children weighing 40 kg or more: Loading dose of 200 mg by IV infusion on day 1, followed by 100 mg by IV infusion once daily on days 2–10 or followed by 100 mg by IV infusion once daily on days 2–5.	FDA (US) has authorized the use of remdesivir in severe infection with the new coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, through the Special Emergency Use Authorization (EUA).
Lopinavir /Ritonavir (LPV/RTV) combination	Antiviral for HIV	Lopinavir is a protease inhibitor used to treat HIV infection in combination with ritonavir to increase its availability.	Lopinavir has some degree of activity against coronaviruses in vitro, including SARS-CoV-2. The clinical data published so far have been inconsistent. Three observational studies failed to identify a reduction in the duration of virus excretion in patients treated with lopinavir/ritonavir compared to favipiravir or placebo, while during the Wuhan epidemic the use of lopinavir/ritonavir resulted in faster elimination of the virus. In the case of early administration, in the initial viral phase, in the first 10 days after the onset of symptoms (36). LPV/RTV (COVID-19): LPV 400 mg/RTV 100 mg orally twice daily for 10–14 days (37).	This drug remains as another alternative, in the absence of more effective drugs. An additional plus is related to the form of liquid administration—usable in orotracheal intubated patients and in newborns.
Umifenovir	Antiviral for influenza viruses	Blocking the penetration of the virus into cells (fusion inhibitor) and the immunomodulatory effect.	In patients with uncomplicated pneumonia in COVID-19, the combination of umifenovir (200 mg every 8 h) with lopinavir/ritonavir resulted in faster clearance of the virus at the nasopharyngeal level and a faster regression of lung imaging changes compared to patients receiving monotherapy with lopinavir/ritonavir (38). 200 mg orally 3 times daily for duration of 7–10 days or longer (39).	Reduced side effects
Favipiravir	Antiviral for flu and Ebola	RNA polymerase inhibitor	Used in China in patients of childbearing potential only if they had a negative pregnancy test and always associated with contraceptive medication during treatment and at least 7 days after stopping treatment; Doses: 1,600 mg every 12 h on the first day, then 600 mg every 12 h for 7–14 days. The drug cannot be administered to children and pregnant women (teratogenic risk)	Teratogenic effects
Tocilizumab	Immunomodulatory	IL-6 receptor antagonist	Has been used in a subset of patients with severe COVID-19 in whom there is excessive activation of inflammation (“cytokine storm”). The effectiveness of tocilizumab has been shown in small groups of patients; after administration of 1–2 doses, afebrility was obtained in all patients, as well as a decrease in oxygen requirements and partial correction of lymphopenia. The results obtained with tocilizumab combined with corticosteroids were favorable, following the administration of doses of 8 mg/kgc, repeated at 8–12 h, up to a maximum of 3 administrations (40).	Risks associated with the reactivation of tuberculosis, hepatic cytolysis, hypercholesterolemia.

Inhibitors of Cell Entry

SARS-CoV-2 can only bind to ACE2 receptors (activated mainly in people with chronic diseases, while in healthy people ACE1 receptors are activated primarily) and TMPRSS2 protease to bind S (spike) receptors of the virus to ACE2 receptors. In the cell SARS-CoV-2 needs the TMPRSS2 protease, present in the human body, to enter into cells. So, this protease is a potential target for therapeutic interventions.

Inhibitors of Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2) and Antimalarial Drugs

Angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE2) is a possible therapeutic target due to its role as a viral ligand. ACE2 is commonly found in the cells of the epithelium and lung parenchyma, making it an accessible target for coronavirus, which is transmitted through the respiratory tract. In this regard, several molecules that could inhibit ACE2 have been identified, of which ruxolitinib is included in a clinical study together with mesenchymal stem cells (41).

Another way to act on the viral receptor is with the help of recombinant human ACE2 (rhACE2), a molecule studied in acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), due to the high level of ACE2 in the lung. The study aims to study the effects of rhACE2 in patients with COVID-19, which could be beneficial both by lowering viremia (due to limited binding to the ECA2 receptor) and by protecting the lung from ARDS, which is one of the complications of COVID-19 with frequent fatal consequences (42).

Chloroquine [(N4-(7-Chloro-4-quinolinyl)-N1,N1-diethyl-1,4-pentanediamine)], a conventional drug for the treatment of malaria, has been applied in several studies against CoVs. In an early report, chloroquine was found to be effective in preventing the spread of SARS-CoV-2 in vitro. Chloroquine was assumed to elevate endosomal pH and to interfere with terminal glycosylation of the ACE2 receptor (43). This could negatively influence the virus-receptor binding to host cells by abrogating the infection, resulting in the inhibition of SARS-CoV-2 infection and spread (44). Emergence of the HCoV strains such as OC43 (HCoV-OC43) caused a 15–30% increase of mild upper respiratory tract infections. Research findings showed that chloroquine inhibits HCoV-OC43 replication in HRT-18 cells with LD50 effective concentration of 0.306 μM and an IC50 of 419 μM (45). In addition, chloroquine (15 mg/kg) could prevent the HCoV-OC43-induced death in newborn C57BL/6 mice with a high survival rate (98.6%) of the pups (46). This report advocated that chloroquine can be highly effective against HCoVs and it may be tested as a future drug against viral infection and spread.

The molecular mechanism of the action of chloroquine/hydroxychloroquine has been reported (47). First, drugs can change the pH of the surface of the cell membrane and thus inhibit the fusion of the virus with the cell membrane. Besides, they can also inhibit nucleic acid replication, glycosylation of viral proteins, virus assembly, transport of new virus particles, and release of the virus from the infected cell (48).

Inhibitors of Transmembrane Protease/Serine Subfamily Member 2 (TMPRSS2)

The therapeutic strategy, to inhibit human receptors of the virus, can be effective against the second protein in the penetration of the virus into cells—transmembrane proteinase TMPRSS2.

The camostat molecule, a synthetic serine protease inhibitor approved in Japan for pancreatic diseases (which also have proteinases as pathogenic elements), has demonstrated inhibitory effects on TMPRSS2 in cell culture studies and, implicitly, the inhibition of viral infection.

Another inhibitor, nafamostat, used as an anticoagulant and anti-pancreatitis agent and is approved for the treatment of cystic fibrosis. Nafamostat has mucolytic action and can prevent the deterioration of lung function (49).

Inhibitors of Replication, Membrane Fusion, and Assembly of SARS-CoV-2

Remdesivir

According to the WHO, the most promising candidate for treatment of SARS-COV-2 is remdesivir (50, 51). Remdesivir is a nucleotide analog that acts against SARS-CoV-2 by inhibiting RNA polymerase and has the following advantages: a broad spectrum antiviral; efficacy against coronaviruses, both in vitro and in vivo studies; a safety profile demonstrated in Ebola studies; and a higher efficacy than the combination lopinavir/ritonavir/IFN β (Interferon beta) used in animal model studies (36, 45).

Recently, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has authorized the use of remdesivir in infections with SARS-CoV-2, through the Special Emergency Use Authorization (EUA). This approval allows physicians to administer remdesivir to patients with a suspected or confirmed severe form of the infection (those who have blood oxygen saturation SpO2 ≤ 94%, require oxygen therapy, mechanical ventilation, or extracorporeal membrane-ECO oxygenation/ECMO), even outside of clinical trials. However, EUA is not a complete approval, as further studies are needed to confirm the effectiveness of this treatment.

Urgent approval follows the publication of encouraging results from two studies involving remdesivir:

The ACTT study, organized by the US National Institute of Allergic and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) was a phase III, randomized, placebo-controlled trial with 1,063 patients included. Results of the study found that patients treated with remdesivir showed a clinical improvement after a 31% shorter period. The study group had a median recovery time of 11 days, compared to 15 days in the control group. The study group had a mortality of 8% compared to 11.6% in the control group (52).

The SIMPLE study, organized by Gilead (the company that produces remdesivir) was a phase III trial without a control group in which patients received a remdesivir treatment for 5 or 10 days. Results showed that clinical improvement was similar in the two groups. Half of the patients showed an improvement in the disease in the first 10 days, in the case of 5-day treatment, and in the first 11 days with the 10-day treatment; after 14 days, 60% of patients receiving remdesivir for 5 days were discharged, and 52.3% of those receiving 10 days were discharged (53).

Lopinavir /Ritonavir Combination

The combination of lopinavir/ritonavir protease inhibitors (marketed as Kaletra for the treatment of HIV infection), with or without IFNβ, is another viable candidate in the fight against SARS-CoV-2 (54). It is already included in the MIRACLE study against the MERS virus, and the first study in China against SARS-CoV-2 has been started. In addition, a team of experts from Wuhan (the city where the infection began) developed a best practice guide, following the management of a large number of patients. In addition to supportive treatment, the guide includes the use of lopinavir + ritonavir + IFN, which is, however, supported by only a low level of scientific certainty (the recommendation is based on use in SARS and MERS infections, related but not identical, to SARS-CoV-2) (55).

Lopinavir/ritonavir works by inhibiting the 3-chemotrypsin-like protease of SARS, MERS, and SARS-Cov-2. Observational studies (in SARS-CoV-2 and SARS) support the initiation of therapy in the first 7–10 days, otherwise the clinical benefits are not found in patients (36).

In addition to the combination with IFN, the two protease inhibitors are also administered in studies with ribavirin (a guanosine analog and RNA synthesis inhibitor that could inhibit papain-like proteinase in COVID-19), emtricitabine/tenofovir (other approved therapies against HIV, which inhibits the enzyme reverse transcriptase), or with umifenovir (inhibitor of viral fusion of human cell membranes, which inhibits the interaction between protein S and the ECA2 receptor).

Umifenovir

Umifenovir (Arbidol) has an effect against influenza viruses and the mechanism of antiviral action is based on blocking the penetration of the virus into cells (fusion inhibitor) and the immunomodulatory effect (56). One of its advantages is its reduced side effects. Umifenovir has been tested in combination with other antivirals in patients with uncomplicated pneumonia with COVID-19 (57).

The combination of umifenovir with lopinavir/ritonavir was found to result in faster clearance of the nasopharyngeal virus and a faster regression of lung imaging compared to patients receiving lopinavir/ritonavir monotherapy (58).

Favipiravir

Favipiravir is an RNA polymerase inhibitor that has been used for influenza and Ebola infection.

It was originally produced in Japan and used more frequently in China; due to its teratogenic effect, in Japan its use is only allowed during the evolution of emerging epidemics or infections. In SARS-Cov-2 infection, favipiravir was more effective in viral eradication and regression of lung imaging than both lopinavir/ritonavir and of umifenovir. However, it can only be given to women who are not pregnant (59).

Neuraminidase Inhibitors

Oseltamivir, peramivir, or zanamivir are not justified for the treatment of COVID-19, because this virus has no neuraminidase; the combination of anti-flu medication is recommended for patients with COVID-19 until an exclusion diagnosis of influenza by gene amplification test is carried out or for as long as necessary for treatment of a concomitant infection with an influenza virus (60).

Tocilizumab

Tocilizumab is a humanized monoclonal antibody IgG1 anti-human receptor for interleukin-6 (IL-6), obtained by recombinant DNA technology in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells. The drug tocilizumab (trade name Actemra) is therapeutically indicated for patients with rheumatoid arthritis, but Chinese authorities have stated that it can be prescribed for patients with coronavirus infection who have severe lung damage and high levels of interleukin 6 protein (IL-6), which indicates inflammation and immune disorders (61).

This immunomodulator may be used in a subgroup of patients with severe forms of COVID-19 in that there is excessive activation of inflammation (“cytokine storm”). Identifying patients who would benefit from taking tocilizumab can be based on parameters such as growth ferritin levels, decreased platelet count, and increased ESR and C-reactive protein (61).

Convalescent Plasma: A Potential Treatment for COVID-19

Passive immunotherapy dates back to the 1890s. It was the only way to treat many infectious diseases before the advent of antimicrobial therapy in the 1940s. The convalescent plasma was also used during the 2013 African Ebola epidemic (62).

Experience from previous coronavirus situations, such as SARS-Cov-1, shows that convalescent plasma contains neutralizing antibodies to the virus.

In the case of SARS-CoV2, the main mechanisms of action of passive antibody therapy are antiviral and immunomodulatory (63).

Antibodies could work in several ways:

Viral neutralization: the antibody attaches to the virus and kills it.

Antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity: the antibody stimulates a specialized immune cell to target the virus and attack its membrane, ultimately causing the virus to disintegrate.

Antibody-dependent cellular phagocytosis.

Passive immunotherapy includes the administration of antibodies against pathogens in susceptible or infected indices for the purpose of preventing or treating the disease due to the pathogen. Currently the only antibody available for immediate use in the potential treatment of COVID-19 is found in plasma taken from cured patients (64).

In contrast, active vaccination induces an immune response that takes time to develop, with variable responses depending on the patient. Thus, immunocompromised patients fail to obtain an adequate immune response. Therefore, passive administration of antibodies is the only way to produce immediate immunity for susceptible individuals and for immunocompromised patients (65).

Several countries, such as the United States (66) and the United Kingdom (67), have announced initiatives to treat patients hospitalized with COVID-19. The priority sampling procedure is plasmapheresis, but whole blood sampling can also be used, with subsequent separation of the plasma from it. Plasma is tested for HIV, HBV, HCV, and anti-HLA antibodies (in some donors), and administered to patients with severe forms of COVID-19 hospitalized in ATI, with rapid disease progression of> 50% in 24–48 h (with lung damage, mechanically ventilated or requiring mechanical ventilation soon, due to dyspnea, tachypnea, and low oxygen saturation).

In addition to the direct use of plasma from recovered patients, it can be used to perform a treatment consisting of polyclonal hyperimmune immunoglobulin.

Ongoing Clinical Studies Related to Possible Treatments for COVID-19

MIRACLE is the first trial to have begun in China against SARS-CoV-2. The combination of lopinavir/ritonavir protease inhibitors (marketed under the name Kaletra for the treatment of HIV infection), with or without IFNβ, is a viable candidate in the fight against SARS-CoV-2. A team of experts from Wuhan (the city where the infection occurred) developed a good practice guide, following the management of a large number of patients (68). In addition to supportive treatment, the guide includes the use of lopinavir + ritonavir + IFN, which is supported, however, by only a low level of scientific certainty (the recommendation is based on the use of SARS and MERS infections, related to, but not identical to, SARS-CoV-2-2). Lopinavir/ritonavir acts by inhibiting the protease similar to 3-chemotrypsin, from the structure of SARS, MERS, and SARS-Cov-2. In addition to the combination with IFN, the two protease inhibitors are administered in studies and in combination with ribavirin (guanosine analog and RNA synthesis inhibitor, which within SARS-COV-2 could inhibit papain-like proteinase), emtricitabine/tenofovir (other approved therapies against HIV, which inhibit the enzyme reverse transcriptase), or with umifenovir (inhibitor of viral fusion by human cell membranes).

SOLIDARITY trial is a study conducted by WHO and the first patients with SARS-COV-2 were already included (69). The purpose of the study is to identify the most effective antiviral agent against SARS-CoV-2, between lopinavir/ritonavir (with or without interferon beta), and remdesivir and chloroquine (or hydroxychloroquine). Spain and Norway are the countries that have administered the treatment, out of the 45 who have joined this project, so far. The Norwegian component of the SOLIDARITY study is registered on the official Clinical Trials platform and provides more details on the progress of the study; the first patients included in Norway are part of the proposed cohort of 700 patients, who will be randomly assigned to three study subgroups: remdesivir, hydroxychloroquine, and standard (supportive) treatment. According to WHO indications, the objectives pursued are mortality, length of hospitalization, and the proportion of patients who require intensive medical support in the intensive care units. In addition, Norwegian doctors will also track the rate at which the virus is eliminated from the body (viral clearance from blood and respiratory samples) and biological markers of its impact on the body (inflammation, endothelial, and platelet activation) (69).

Trial of Treatments for COVID-19 in Hospitalized Adults (DisCoVeRy) study will be conducted in Europe by the National Institutes of Health and Medical Research in France (Inserm), and it will include the same therapeutic molecules and a total of 3,200 patients from Belgium, Germany, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, and the United Kingdom. Several medical centers will start collecting data as new cases emerge, and the first data analysis will be performed after 15 days of treatment (70).

COVACTA is a new study that aims to identify a potential treatment against SARS-COV-2. The drug that will be investigated is tocilizumab, a monoclonal antibody that inhibits interleukin 6 receptor and is used in rheumatology. The study will be a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase III trial that will track the benefits of tocilizumab added to the standard of care (ventilator support). The study will include 330 patients worldwide and will follow their clinical status, along with the proportion of patients requiring intensive care, mechanical ventilation, or developing severe forms of SARS-COV-2, which evolves with death (71). This study is the result of case studies, where it has been observed that tocilizumab improves the clinical status in severe cases of SARS-COV-2, with advanced pulmonary inflammation. This use is based on the approval of tocilizumab as a treatment in cytokine release syndrome (CRS), an inflammatory manifestation throughout the body, which may be an adverse reaction to CAR-T cell immunotherapy. In the case of SARS-COV-2, the penetration of SARS-CoV-2 into the body stimulates an immune response, with cytokine release (including IL-6), which stimulates fever, inflammation, and pulmonary fibrosis. Studies of SARS-COV-2 cases have shown that elevated levels of IL-6 in patients' serum are statistically significantly correlated with the severe evolution of the infection (71).

To test the impact of camostat mesilate on COVID-19 Infection (CamoCO-19), an Investigator-initiated Randomized, Placebo-controlled, Phase IIa Trial is underway and its results are expected to be announced in December this year (72).

The efficacy of nafamostat in patients with Covid-19 (RACONA study), is the subject of another ongoing clinical trial. The aim of the RACONA study is to test the hypothesis that nafamostat is useful in the treatment of COVID-19 lung damage. This hypothesis is justified by the fact that COVID-19 involves the activation of the coagulation cascade, pulmonary embolism, and bacterial superinfections (73).

Chloroquine phosphate displayed apparent efficacy and acceptable safety against SARS-COV-2 in multicenter clinical trials conducted in China (74). The use of this drug appears in the Guidelines for the Prevention, Diagnosis, and Treatment of Pneumonia Caused by SARS-CoV-2 issued by the National Health Commission of the People's Republic of China. Another recent study suggested chloroquine phosphate tablet (500 mg twice per day for 10 days) against SARS-COV-2 (74). Although chloroquine has long been used to treat malaria and amebiasis, Plasmodium falciparum has developed widespread resistance to it (75). Furthermore, an overdose of chloroquine was known to cause acute poisoning and death (76) which limits its utilization in clinical practices.

Hydroxychloroquine is a derivative of chloroquine, and significantly less (~40%) toxic (77). Recently, hydroxychloroquine was found to efficiently inhibit the SARS-CoV-2 infection in vitro through an anti-inflammatory mechanism (48). In a most recent report, hydroxychloroquine's role on respiratory viral loads was evaluated using SARS-COV-2 patients from France (78). Hydroxychloroquine (600 mg daily) was administered to patients and their viral load in nasopharyngeal swabs was tested daily. After 6 days of treatment, 20 cases showed a significant reduction of the viral load. Interestingly, the addition of azithromycin to hydroxychloroquine significantly eliminated the virus as compared to a single therapy (79). This clinical survey demonstrated that hydroxychloroquine treatment is significantly associated with viral load reduction in SARS-CoV-2 infected patients, with better results obtained by the addition of azithromycin (78). This might be a milestone preventive option in limiting the infection and spread of SARS-CoV-2.

In the case of umifenovir (an active antiviral against influenza, approved only in China and Russia), its use in COVID-19 is promising; according to ongoing Chinese studies, it could lead to a lower mortality rate. A randomized study compared umifenovir with another promising antiviral, favipiravir, which resulted in a higher cure rate after 7 days of treatment in moderate cases of COVID-19 (71.4% in the favipiravir group, compared to 55.9% in the umifenovir group) (80).

Other therapeutic options, with lower chances of success—according to the WHO—are monoclonal or polyclonal antibodies, or serum collected from patients with SARS-COV-2, which contains antibodies against infection (25). However, a study involving plasma harvested from patients cured of SARS-COV-2 and its administration in severe cases of pulmonary disease has been initiated—in which a few cases of clinical remission have been described (81).

WHO has also identified a number of molecules into which studies are discouraged—ribavirin and immunosuppressants, such as corticosteroids (which may be useful in severe lung injury), and in the case of chloroquine there is insufficient evidence to substantiate the studies. However, studies including these drugs have been started, based on preclinical evidence of action against SARS-CoV-2 virus (82, 83).

Last but not the least, a number of non-specific treatments can bring about clinical improvements, such as statins, heparin, and vitamin C. In addition to the molecules described by WHO, recent studies suggest other possible treatments for SARS-CoV-2. Mesenchymal stem cells are the subject of several phase I and II studies, carried out within the SARS-CoV-2 infection. The therapeutic hypothesis is that the immunomodulatory and regenerative properties of stem cells can inhibit the inflammatory component of SARS-COV-2 lung disease (which can lead to fatal disease progression) (84).

Elements of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), such as herbal preparations or acupuncture, are included in the Wuhan Good Practice Guide and are the subject of several clinical studies initiated in SARS-COV-2 (85).

Vaccines Against COVID-19: New Hope for Public Health

Worldwide, there is increasing attention of identifying vaccines that could be the salvage solution against COVID-19. In March 2020, many pharmaceutical companies started developing vaccines worldwide. One month later, in April 2020, the first vaccine in clinical trial in humans began.

A vaccine is a biological preparation used to produce or enhance immunity against a particular disease, such as COVID-19. Inoculation of dead or weakened microorganisms of the virus that causes the disease (or fragments, products, derivatives) stimulates the production of antibodies (86). When the immune system encounters the microorganism that causes the disease, then it itself prevents the disease from reacting quickly and efficiently (87).

The human immune system is a system of biological structures and processes that protect us against disease, by recognizing germs that enter the body as foreign invaders. When antigens invade the human body, the immune system responds by producing protein substances called antibodies and very specific cells that can fight off invading germs (88).

Immunity is the successful defense of the body against a pathogen. When the body has produced a sufficient number of antibodies to fight the disease, this immunity results, providing protection against the disease for many months, years, or even life. If a person subsequently comes into contact with the same pathogen, the immune system will be able to rapidly produce the same type of antibody that prevents the disease from developing or decreases its severity and allows it to remove the pathogen from the body. By “immunological memory,” it is estimated that the immune system can remember or effectively recognize and fight hundreds of thousands, possibly millions, of different foreign organisms (89).

Vaccination involves the introduction of a limited amount of disease-specific antigens into the human body, which stimulates the immune system sufficiently to produce the required amount of antibodies but without causing the disease (90).

Vaccine development is a complex and time-consuming process that differs from conventional drug development. Indeed, vaccines are intended for use in healthy people as a preventive measure, while conventional medicines are geared toward treating a disease. Clinical studies to demonstrate the efficacy of a vaccine focus on demonstrating that it can prevent the disease, which implies the need for a greater number of subjects than in the case of traditional drug studies. Before a vaccine is approved and brought to market, it goes through a long and rigorous research process, followed by many years of testing to meet stringent regulatory requirements. Thus, clinical trials for vaccines are carried out in three research phases. Phase I involves a small number of volunteers (20–50 people) and aims to evaluate safety, determine dosage, and identify potential adverse reactions. In phase II of the clinical studies about 100–300 volunteers are involved, the purpose being to analyze in more detail the safety and immunogenicity, the necessary dosage, and to identify the administration schedule. Phase III studies include 3,000–50,000 volunteers, being the last phase to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the large-scale vaccine and to analyze the concomitant administration with other vaccines and treatments. After the testing phase, the vaccines must be approved by the regulatory agencies, in our case by the European Medicines Agency, and only then can they reach the doctors and the population (91).

The latest data on obtaining a vaccine against SARS-CoV-2 come from researchers at the University of Oxford who have announced that they have started enrolling healthy participants in a clinical trial to test a candidate vaccine for COVID-19, called ChAdOx1 nCoV-19.

Initially developed to prevent MERS, this potential vaccine is based on an adenovirus vaccine vector and COVID-19 spike protein. Currently, it is being manufactured in the University of Oxford's Clinical Biomanufacturing unit and will be ready in a few weeks, according to trialsitenews.com.

Developed at the University of Oxford, ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 is a safe version of an adenovirus. It has been modified so that it cannot be reproduced in the human body and the genetic code that transmits instructions for the production of Coronavirus Spike protein has been added, allowing the adenovirus to produce this protein after vaccination. The result is the formation of antibodies against Spike protein, known to be on the surface of SARS-CoV-2 (92).

The clinical trial will enroll up to 510 participants and will be led by the Jenner Institute and the Vaccinology Group of the University of Oxford. The study started in March 2020 and is scheduled to be completed in May 2021. It will be conducted in the UK, on healthy adult volunteers aged 18–55. The vaccine will be administered intramuscularly.

Official reports show that university researchers are tracking results in additional preclinical tests to assess safety, while pledging to invest in the production of a large number of units prior to clinical trial. The Oxford team of researchers has significant experience in contributing to addressing public health emergencies, having been active during the 2014 Ebola outbreak (93, 94).

China has already announced that it has a vaccine clinical trials. The potential candidate is realized by the Military Academy of Medical Sciences of China and Cansino Biologics and is based on a technological platform developed by Cansino, related to viral adenoviruses. It is the same platform where a vaccine for Ebola was successful in 2017 (95).

Ad5-nCoV is a novel vaccine, developed by genetic engineering with the replication of type 5 adenovirus as a vector of immunity against the protein of the new CoV (96).

Other candidate vaccines are currently in the preclinical study phase. Johnson & Johnson initiated research efforts for the various potential candidate vaccines in January 2020, as soon as the new coronavirus sequence (COVID-19) became available. Janssen research teams, in collaboration with Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, part of Harvard Medical School, have developed and tested several vaccine candidates using Adansac® Janssen technology (97). Following this approach, Johnson & Johnson has identified a prime candidate for the COVID-19 vaccine (with two spare variants), leading to the first stages of production. With an accelerated track record, the company intends to launch the Phase 1 trial in September 2020, and clinical safety and efficacy data are expected to be available by the end of the year. This process would allow vaccine availability for emergency use in early 2021. For comparison, the usual process of developing a vaccine involves a number of different research stages, over a period of 5–7 years, before a candidate could be considered for approval (97).

Kentucky Bioprocessing (KBP) is developing a possible vaccine for COVID-19, currently in the pre-clinical testing phase (98). The developing vaccine uses a BAT technology for rapid growth of the tobacco plant, with several advantages over the conventional vaccine production technology: (i) It is potentially safer, given that tobacco plants cannot harbor pathogens that lead to human disease; (ii) It is faster because the vaccine elements accumulate in tobacco plants much faster−6 weeks in tobacco plants compared to several months when conventional methods are used; (iii) the vaccine formula developed by KBP remains stable at room temperature, as opposed to conventional vaccines, which often require refrigeration; and (iv) it has the potential to deliver an effective single-dose immune response.

KBP recently cloned a portion of the genetic sequence of COVID-19, which led to the development of a potential antigen—a substance that induces an immune response to the body and particularly stimulates antibody production. This antigen was then inserted into tobacco plants for reproduction. After the plants were harvested, the antigen was purified and is currently undergoing pre-clinical testing (99). The pharmaceutical industry and health authorities argue that there are significant efforts to diagnose, treat, and prevent infections with the new coronavirus.

Alternative Medication—Natural Compounds To Control SARS-CoV-2: IN VITRO Studies

Along with therapeutic drug development and vaccine trials, it has become necessary to search for possible alternative and integrated medicinal systems involving natural products to treat SARS-CoV. Some natural products with immunostimulatory and antiviral action are recommended in respiratory viruses and viral infections with various locations (100, 101). They support immunity and strengthen the body by protecting it from viruses. TCM and other traditional and complementary medicine systems have a range of herbal preparations that could be assessed in combination with synthetic drugs for preventing and treating SARS (102). These could serve as a cure and could prevent infection and viral replication. Some TCM and other herbal preparations could resolve toxic responses, eliminate pathological dampness, and improve lung function and blood circulation (102–105). In addition, some TCM, such as Snow Lotus (Saussurea involucrata Matsum. & Koidz.), may enhance immunity and be beneficial for CoV infection treatment (106). However, further evidence is needed.

Several traditional herbal medicines have been reported for their plausible antiviral activities against SARS-CoV-2 (103, 107–109). Glycyrrhizin and it derivatives from liquorice roots (Glycyrrhiza glabra L.) were found to exhibit antiviral activities against SARS-CoV-2 (110–112). In combination with herbal preparations, indomethacin, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, showed potent antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2 (113). These formulations might stop the replication of SARS-CoV-2 through inhibition of one or more viral proteins including SARS-CoV-23CL protease. This protease is an important factor that regulates the proteolytic processing of replicase polypeptides into functional proteins, and plays a key role in viral replication (114, 115). Thus, SARS-CoV-23CL protease can be a suitable target for drug candidates against SARS-CoV.

Along this line, an in-depth study evaluated more than 200 herbal extracts from TCM for antiviral potentials against SARS-CoV-2 on Vero E6 using a cell-based assay cytopathogenic effect (116). Among these, six herbal extracts of plants and plant parts Gentiana scabra Bunge (the dried rhizome), Dioscorea polystachya Turcz. (the tuber), Senna tora (L.) Roxb. (the dried seed), Taxillus chinensis (DC.) Danser (the dried stem with leaf), and Cibotium barometz (L.) J.Sm. (the dried rhizome) were found to be potent inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2 at concentrations ranging between 25 and 200 μg/mL. Similarly, two extracts of C. barometz also showed notable inhibition of SARS-CoV-23CL protease activity with IC50 values of 39 and 44 μg/mL, respectively (116). These herbal extracts inhibited replication and 3CL protease activity of SARS-CoV, thus suggesting that such specific herbal extracts may be potentially utilized as drug targets for future antiviral drug development against SARS-CoV. G. scabra was also reported for its hepatoprotective effect because of the triterpenoids of secoiridoid and its glycosides (117, 118) which adds to liver-protection during hepatic failure due to viral proliferation.

On the basis of these observations, other specific triterpenoids have also been reported to inhibit SARS-CoV-2 replication, especially secoiridoid and its glycosides from G. scabra extract (116). Two other specific polysaccharide-containing fractions from D. polystachya tuber extracts were reported to remarkably increase the GM-CSF promoter activity in improving the regeneration of bone marrow cells, and exerted anti-inflammatory effects through the inhibition of NF-κB-mediated iNOS and COX-2 expressions (119–122). The inflammatory pathways involving COX-2 may correlate with antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2 and other antiviral activities (113, 123). Similarly, emodin, a trihydroxyanthraquinone obtained from rhubarb, buckthorn, and Japanese knotweed, exhibited antiviral activity against SARS-CoV. It inhibited the viral entry into host cells by binding with the spike proteins and interfering with the SARS-CoV-23CL protease activity (124). Likewise, luteolin and quercetin could also interfere with the viral entry to its host cells (125). Furthermore, tetra-O-galloyl-β-d-glucose (TGG) and luteolin showed anti-SARS-CoV-2activities; TGG exhibited prominent anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity with an IC50 of 4.5 μM. These reports suggest that specific glycosylated flavonoids may play an effective role in inhibiting SARS-CoV-2replication activity. In summary, natural small molecules may be excellent opportunities for further optimization and potential clinical use against SARS-CoV, especially targeting 3CL protease. Additionally, traditional and alternative medicine may be explored for future drug development processes (126, 127). A recent review highlighted that a good number of medicinal plants and their herb-derived constituents have shown potential anti-SARS-CoV activity (non-clinical and pre-clinical study). Such agents are not only important to combat SARS-CoVs, but also play an important role in preventing viral attacks. However, there is a lack of adequate research on the development of anti-nCoV-19 agents from such natural products (128).

Limitations

As there is a huge volume of therapeutic approaches for COVID-19, we may not cover all available therapeutic approaches. In addition, research results are dynamic and change as new evidence emerges. Second, only data based on the adult population and not the pediatric population were included in this review. Third, only articles/publications/translations from English were analyzed so some relevant international data might be missing.

Conclusions

Coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 is, at present, the most important topic in medical research; from epidemiology to possible treatments, there are many unknowns in this pandemic. In terms of treatment, there are several potential molecules; from remdesivir, an antiviral previously tested for Ebola already approved by the FDA, to antiretrovirals used against HIV and antimalarials such as hydroxychloroquine. However, a large number of small studies, with different methodologies, cannot adequately identify the most effective and safe treatment.

Drug development, together with vaccine development and epidemiological research into viral infection, is an essential element in understanding and controlling SARS-COV-2. Interim results of clinical trials will be published in the coming months, and patients will be able to benefit from final results and approvals in the coming months, with the support of the relevant authorities. In addition to studying therapeutic molecules in this emerging infection, an important step in the management of SARS-COV-2 is the approval of possible treatments. In this regard, the agencies responsible for the evaluation and approval of US and EU medicines—FDA and EMA—have adopted measures to encourage a rapid, but effective, trial in the case of SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus, a situation that could have a beneficial impact on the evolution of the epidemic.

Worldwide, deaths among infected persons is increasing on a daily basis. Therefore, the current SARS-CoV-2 pandemic is related to a social together with its viral catastrophe. The control of the outbreaks of SARS-CoV-2 is now becoming a world challenge. The development of preventive and controlling remedies along with personal precautions are urgently needed to avoid SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Author Contributions

MT, MN, IK, SM, MK-E-Z, TA, and MR contributed to drafting and writing the manuscript. MMu, EA, and MMa were responsible for the collection of relevant literatures. AD, EA, DC, and JS-R contributed to the conception of the figure, interpreted the results, and revised the manuscript critically for important intellectual content. MT, WC, DC, AD, and JS-R supervised the whole process. All authors contributed equally and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.

Conflict of Interest

The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.