Scientists at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee have made a significant breakthrough in the fight against Chikungunya, a mosquito-borne viral disease known for causing fever, joint pain, muscle aches, and rashes. Their study suggests that Efavirenz, a drug commonly used for HIV treatment, may also help inhibit the replication of the Chikungunya virus.
Supported by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), the research demonstrated that Efavirenz significantly reduced virus levels in both laboratory-grown cells and infected mice models. Given that Chikungunya continues to affect various regions in India every year, as reported by the National Centre for Vector-Borne Disease Control, this discovery holds promising implications for public health.
Additionally, the study found that Efavirenz also impacts the Sindbis virus, a close relative of the Chikungunya virus. Dr. Sanket Nehul, the study’s first author, highlighted that Efavirenz appears to disrupt the virus early in its replication cycle. Since the drug is already approved for HIV treatment, it could fast-track the possibility of clinical trials for Chikungunya, potentially cutting down on the time and costs required for developing an entirely new antiviral.
Prof. Shailly Tomar, the corresponding author of the study, emphasized the importance of finding targeted antiviral treatments for Chikungunya, as current management focuses only on alleviating symptoms. He stated that while the study provides encouraging results, clinical trials are essential to determine its real-world effectiveness in human patients.
IIT Roorkee’s Director, Prof. Kamal Kishore Pant, reaffirmed the institute’s dedication to impactful research addressing public health challenges. He described the findings as a significant step toward potential solutions for mosquito-borne viral diseases.
However, the researchers clarified that Efavirenz is not yet a confirmed treatment for Chikungunya, and further studies and clinical trials will be necessary to assess its safety and efficacy in infected individuals.
