Towards broader-spectrum direct-acting antivirals against RNA viruses.

Broader-spectrum antiviral drugs targeting RNA viruses are urgently needed to address unmet medical needs and improve pandemic preparedness.

• Why it matters: Many life-threatening viral infections caused by RNA viruses lack effective antiviral therapeutics, highlighting a critical gap in current medical options and epidemic response.
• What they did: The review discusses the rationale for developing diversified antiviral agents with activity across multiple RNA virus genera and families, including an overview of approved and investigational drugs and their biological determinants.
• The result: Advancing clinical development frameworks for these broad-spectrum antivirals could accelerate their evaluation and deployment during outbreaks, enhancing global health security.