2-Deoxy-d-glucose Inhibits Replication of Novel Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) with Adverse Effects on Host Cell Metabolism

Abstract

The treatment of viral infections is challenging owing to the intricate structure and metabolism of the viruses. In addition, they can highjack host cellular metabolism, mutate and adapt to harsh environmental conditions. The novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) displays further resilient attributes, making its eradication even more difficult. SARS-CoV-2 is an enveloped virus whose replication can be targeted by limiting the substrates available for structural incorporation. One such molecule that limits substrate availability and has received much attention lately is 2-Deoxy-d-glucose (2-DG). SARS-CoV-2 infection induces glycolysis, impairs mitochondrial function, and damages the infected cells. Administration of 2-DG can inhibit increased glycolytic flux and some other metabolic processes to cause the cessation of viral replication. This article provides a review of the mechanism of action and safety concerns associated with administering 2-DG in the treatment of COVID-19. The drug can have adverse effects on normal cell metabolism since it targets cells non-selectively, possibly in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, the drug has limited use in SARS-CoV-2 infection associated with stroke, hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy, and critical illness.

2-Deoxy-D-Glucose: A Novel Pharmacological Agent for Killing Hypoxic Tumor Cells, Oxygen Dependence-Lowering in Covid-19, and Other Pharmacological Activities

“…2-DG limits viral proliferation in the body by selectively killing cells infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus by halting energy production and viral synthesis [104]. 2-DG has limited use in SARS-CoV-2 patients sufering from stroke, hypoxicischemic encephalopathy, and other critical illnesses [105][106][107]. In Phase II clinical trials, the addition of 90 mg/ kg/day of 2-DG to the standard of care (SOC) for the treatment of moderate to severe COVID-19 demonstrated clinical beneft over SOC alone [107].…”

Impact of Different Drugs or Medication on Covid-19: A Review

“…Infected cells rapidly absorb the medication, which builds up there. 53,54 The viral glycoprotein's glycosylation is altered by the 2-DG medication, preventing the virus from creating energy, replicating, and infecting human cells. Additionally, it lessens the requirement for extra oxygen.…”