AntiviralDB: an expert-curated database of antiviral agents against human infectious diseases.

Abstract

Viral infectious diseases have caused millions of deaths worldwide. Antiviral agents are critical for controlling these infections; however, an open-access database dedicated specifically to antiviral agents remains unavailable. Here, we present AntiviralDB (https://www.antiviraldb.com/), an expert-curated resource that compiles both approved and experimental antiviral agents with laboratory-confirmed in vitro activity against a broad spectrum of human viruses. These include the human immunodeficiency virus, coronaviruses, hepatitis viruses, influenza virus, respiratory syncytial virus, herpes simplex virus, varicella-zoster virus, human cytomegalovirus, human papillomavirus, dengue virus, Zika virus, Ebola virus, mpox virus, norovirus, chikungunya virus, and 16 other common or life-threatening pathogens. Each antiviral agent in the database is annotated with key information, including its molecular target, in vitro antiviral activity (IC₅₀, EC₅₀, and CC₅₀ across specific viral strains and cell lines), mechanism of action, and relevant pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic parameters. AntiviralDB also provides clinical efficacy and safety data derived from randomized clinical trials. Unlike existing drug databases, AntiviralDB offers two distinctive features: (i) standardized laboratory protocols for antiviral drug screening under appropriate biosafety conditions and (ii) clinical guidelines for the therapeutic use of antiviral agents against viral infections. By serving as a comprehensive repository of antiviral agents and their clinical applications, AntiviralDB aims to advance antiviral drug discovery and support the effective clinical management of viral infectious diseases.

Importance: Over the past decade, viral infectious diseases have caused significant morbidity and mortality worldwide, underscoring the urgent need for effective antiviral therapies. However, there is a lack of an open-access database that consolidates detailed information on antiviral agents, clinical guidelines, and laboratory protocols. To address this need, AntiviralDB was developed to integrate extensive data on antiviral agents-including clinical efficacy, safety profiles, pharmacokinetic parameters, and in vitro and in vivo activities-together with standardized experimental protocols and clinical treatment guidelines. This resource empowers researchers and clinicians to (i) identify promising antiviral candidates for controlling infectious diseases, (ii) accelerate the discovery and development of novel therapeutics, (iii) optimize the clinical use of existing antiviral drugs, and (iv) enhance a quick response to emerging viral outbreaks.