Cascade Open Call RN5: RN5: HANAIN

The HANAIN project aims to develop optimized inhibitors targeting hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA) viral proteins to combat influenza viruses. These proteins play critical roles in the virus's ability to infect host cells and propagate. By focusing on these pivotal molecular targets, the project seeks to identify new molecules with potential antiviral properties through a combination of computational and experimental approaches. The research activities will be based on the accelerate identification of promising candidates retrieved by employing a hybrid computational protocol that combines structure-based and ligand-based virtual screening; in turn, the synthesis and optimization of hit compounds will be addressed to validate the safety and the efficacy of the compounds. The project aligns with the INF-ACT programme by addressing the urgent need for novel antivirals against influenza A viruses. It integrates computational methods with experimental validation, promoting a modern, efficient, and environmentally conscious approach to drug discovery addressed to the identification of new chemical entities as preclinical candidates. The interdisciplinary approach ensures robustness in findings, while the use of a screening campaign on focused libraries of existing drugs as well as in house collection of small molecules will enhance the project's sustainability by reducing costs and environmental impact. Of note, taking into account the short time and economic resources available to complete this project and the need for information on the actual hitting the specific HA and NA targets, the assessment of the actual antiviral activity of the selected compounds will be achieved using only specific, non-infectious-virus HA/NA-inhibition assays. This comprehensive strategy not only aims to provide immediate therapeutic options but also sets the groundwork for ongoing antiviral research, ensuring long-term benefits and preparedness against influenza outbreak (1990/2000).