Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea: Causative Agent, Epidemiology, Clinical Characteristics, and Treatment Strategy Targeting Main Protease

Abstract

Aims: This aimed to study the causative agent, epidemiology, clinical characteristics, and treatment strategy targeting the main protease in porcine epidemic diarrhea. Background: Porcine epidemic diarrhea (PED) is a contagious intestinal viral infection causing severe diarrhea, vomiting, and dehydration in pigs. High rates of mortalities and severe morbidities, approaching 100%, are reported in piglets infected with PEDV. In recent years, PED has been observed to influence the swine-farming nations in Europe, Asia, the USA, South Korea, and Canada. The PED virus (PEDV) transmission takes place through a faecal-oral route. Objective: The objective is to review the characteristics of PEDV and its role in the disease. In addition, we aim to outline some possible methods to combat PED infection, including targeting the main protease of coronavirus and their future perspectives. Method: This study is a review of literature on the PED virus. Results: Apart from symptomatic treatment and supportive care, there is no available specific treatment for PEDV. Appropriate disinfectants and cleaning are pivotal for the control of PEDV. To date, apart from anti-PEDV inhibitors, there are no specific drugs available commercially to treat the disease. Therefore, 3C-like protease (3CLpro) in PEDV that has highly conserved structure and catalytic mechanism serves as an alluring drug as it plays a vital role during viral polyprotein processing at the time of infection. Conclusion: A well synchronized and collective effort of scientists, swine veterinarians, pork industry experts, and associated authorities is essential for the accomplishment of proper execution of these required measures.