Inhibition of SARS-associated coronavirus (SCoV) infection and replication by RNA interference - Patents

Inhibition of SARS-associated coronavirus (SCoV) infection and replication by RNA interference
United States Patent 7,129,223
Kung , et al.
October 31, 2006
Inventors: Kung; Hsiang-Fu (Hong Kong, CN), He; Ming-Liang (Hong Kong, CN), Zheng; Bo-Jiang (Hong Kong, CN), Guan; Yi (Hong Kong, CN), Lin; Marie Chia-Mi (Hong Kong, CN), Peng; Ying (Hong Kong, CN)
Assignee: The University of HongKong (CN)
Appl. No.: 10/848,737
Filed: May 19, 2004
Abstract
The present invention relates to therapeutic agents useful for the treatment of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) in humans. In particular, the present invention relates to RNA interference (RNAi) molecules useful for inhibiting the infection and replication of hSARS virus. Preferably, the RNAi molecules target the replicase region of the hSARS virus, or combinations of different sites of hSARS virus genes. The present invention further encompasses methods of using the RNAi molecules for preventing and/or treating SARS. Vaccines and kits comprising therapeutically effective amounts of the RNAi molecules are also encompassed.