IIT Roorkee Researchers Discover Potential Drug Against Chikungunya

Researchers at IIT Roorkee have identified a potential drug candidate that could help combat Chikungunya, offering new hope for treatment. Check details here

IIT Roorkee Researchers Discover Potential Drug Against Chikungunya

Scientists at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee have explored a promising new treatment for Chikungunya, a mosquito-borne viral disease known for causing fever, joint pain, muscle pain, and rashes. Their research suggests that Efavirenz, a widely used HIV drug, could also be effective against Chikungunya, as it has demonstrated the ability to reduce viral replication in both in vitro studies and mouse models.

Currently, no antiviral treatment is specifically approved for Chikungunya. However, a study by IIT Roorkee, supported by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), found that Efavirenz significantly reduced virus levels in lab-grown cell cultures and infected mouse models. However, Dr. Sanket Nehul, first author of the study, says, "Our findings suggest that Efavirenz can interfere with the virus early in its replication process. Since this drug is already widely used for HIV treatment, further clinical trials can explore its potential for Chikungunya treatment, reducing the time and cost required for developing new antiviral drugs."

The study also revealed that Efavirenz impacts the replication of the Sindbis virus, a close relative of Chikungunya. This suggests its potential effectiveness against similar viruses, though further research is needed to validate its effects in humans. Prof. Shailly Tomar, the corresponding author, highlighted the significance of these findings, "At present, people infected with Chikungunya rely on symptom management as there is no specific antiviral treatment. Our study provides initial scientific evidence that Efavirenz might be a potential antiviral drug for chikungunya treatment. However, clinical trials will be required to assess its effectiveness in the chikungunya patients."

"At IIT Roorkee, we are committed to research that can address public health challenges. This study is a step toward finding possible solutions for mosquito-borne viral infections," said Prof. Kamal Kishore Pant, Director of IIT Roorkee.

This study provides scientific evidence that Efavirenz, an existing drug, may help limit the spread of the Chikungunya virus in laboratory settings. Since it is already approved for another medical condition, further research could explore its potential as a cost-effective and widely accessible treatment. However, these findings do not yet establish Efavirenz as a confirmed therapy for Chikungunya. Additional studies and clinical trials are necessary to assess its safety and effectiveness in patients.

Read More

• IIT Roorkee and Niigata University Launch Double PhD Program to Foster Global Research Collaboration
• IIT Roorkee to Establish Standards Clubs Across 14 Departments with BIS Partnership