antiviral drug discovery

Antiviral drug discovery is the process of finding effective medications to treat viral infections. Scientists first identify specific targets in the virus that can be attacked, such as proteins or enzymes essential for its survival or replication. They then screen thousands of compounds to see which can inhibit these targets. Once promising candidates are found, they undergo testing for safety and effectiveness in the laboratory and in clinical trials. The goal is to develop drugs that can either eliminate the virus or significantly reduce its ability to cause illness, ultimately improving patient outcomes and public health.