Terpenes and terpenoids as potential inhibitors targeting SARS-CoV-2

Official URL: https://dx.doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-443-18757-5.00007-4

Terpenes and terpenoids are one of the most promising and largest classes of natural compounds with diverse pharmacological activities. They mainly constitute the essential oils of plants and consist of hydrocarbons that have an isoprene unit. Recent efforts have focused on the discovery of SARS-CoV-2 inhibitors to mediate COVID-19 therapy, and terpenes have been at the forefront of this research. In this chapter, biological activities of terpenes were discussed from a broad perspective and studies investigating the mode of actions against SARS-CoV-2 were reviewed. The potential COVID-19 vaccine adjuvant uses of terpenes are addressed, and safety/toxicity data are compiled. Clinical trials, marketed products, and patent searches were also performed. This chapter provides comprehensive insights about terpenes as promising SARS-CoV-2 inhibitors. In conclusion, considering these activities of terpenes, it is imperative that a high priority should be given to the discovery of phytochemical-based therapeutics and phytopharmaceutical formulations against COVID-19, even in the interepidemic period.