Potential Therapeutics: To Hold in the Fight against Zika Virus

Azizul Haque and Anudeep B

Abstract

No specific therapeutic agent or vaccine has yet been approved for the treatment or prevention of Zika virus infection, which may induce microcephaly in babies born to infected mothers and Guillain-Barré Syndrome in adults. Although the reported numbers of Zika cases have fallen in the last few months, multiple outbreaks of Zika virus and the likelihood of future exposure highlights the need for better preparedness and the development of effective treatments. Here, we briefly review both existing and future options for anti-Zika therapy by taking into account the epitome of Zika virus neurotropism. We project the mechanistic hypotheses of several potential drugs under development and propose the repurposing of drugs with known properties that are medically approved. Furthermore, we underline the importance of combinational therapy for better treatment outcomes for Zika patients. Our paper also discusses strategies for identifying potential target populations to develop therapeutics and test their anti-Zika properties.