Current trends in diagnostics, biomarker identification, and drug discovery targeting Monkeypox (Mpox)

The monkeypox virus is the cause of the zoonotic disease known as monkeypox (Mpox), which has recently become widely prevalent and attracted interest from across the world. Two main viral clades cause mpox: Clade I, which was previously known as the Central African clade, and Clade II, which was once known as the West African clade and contains the subclades IIa and IIb. The review focuses on antiviral treatments that target several stages of the viral lifecycle, including invasion, replication, and assembly. It attempts to elucidate the significant biomarkers, diagnostic methodologies, and Mpox drug development. The biology of mpox demonstrates its distinct features: it is a big, enveloped DNA virus that multiplies in the cytoplasm of infected cells. Different routes of transmission, including as respiratory droplets and direct contact with lesions, are involved in the pathophysiology of Mpox. Fever, lymphadenopathy, and rash are the first signs, which develop into papules, vesicles, and pustules. In addition to newly developed options like KAY-2–41 for resistant strains, established antiviral medications like cidofovir and its derivative brincidofovir are being investigated. MVA BN is a newly developed vaccine approved by WHO for use against Mpox virus and is reported to be approx. 80 % effective. Future research should focus on these areas, along with a better understanding of Mpox virus-host interactions. Comprehensive, long-term strategies, including vaccination, robust surveillance, and continued innovation in therapeutic options, will be essential to control Mpox outbreaks and mitigate future health risks. This thorough analysis emphasizes the critical need for ongoing monitoring, improved diagnosis techniques, and creative treatment approaches to lessen the effects of a potential Mpox outbreak