Structure-based screening of marine carotenoids: fucoxanthin and its derivatives as potential inhibitors of the SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid phosphoprotein

Key Points

• Fucoxanthin demonstrates potential as an inhibitor of SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid phosphoprotein, indicating promise in antiviral applications.
• Key metric shows significant interaction against the nucleocapsid phosphoprotein in testing scenarios, likely aiding COVID-19 management.
• Structure-based screening analysis identified marine carotenoid derivatives that may reduce viral activity and replication.
• Findings highlight the need for further exploration of marine-derived compounds in pathogen inhibition, emphasizing the role of nature in drug discovery.