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Molecular basis of COVID-19 pathogenesis
The review summarizes studies of chemical and biological processes occurring in human body
upon exposure to coronaviruses, in particular SARS-CoV-2. The mechanisms of viral particles
penetration into the cell and their replication, impact on the immune system and oxygen transport
systems are considered. The mechanisms of complications occurring as a consequence of viral
infection - vasculitis, thrombosis, cytokine storm and lung fibrosis are discussed. The review
also includes data on the latest research in the field of small molecule medication to counteract
the virus. Molecular targets and possible vectors of exploiting them are considered.
The review is written primarily for specialists who want to understand the chains of activation,
replication, actions and methods of protection/inhibition of SARS-CoV-2. Due to the short
period of such studies, the data on complexes of small molecule compounds and possible protein
targets are not numerous, but they will be useful in search and synthesis of new potentially
effective drugs.