A broad-spectrum virus- and host-targeting peptide against respiratory viruses including influenza virus and SARS-CoV-2

Abstract

Here Zhao et al. report a promising broad-spectrum antiviral alkaline peptide—P9R—that is active against several respiratory, pH-dependent viruses, including Influenza and SARS-CoV-2. P9R interferes with virus internalization by binding to the virus and subsequent inhibition of endosomal acidification.