The sequence of the SARS-CoV-2 genome was given to the world after a few days of discovery of the infection. This sequencing was done with the help of a process in fundamental molecular research known as next-generation sequencing (NGS). Fundamental molecular research plays an important role in the medical field during pandemics as it helps to decode infectious processes of an unknown pathogen, create therapeutic approaches, and guides the doctors and hospital staff to implement the most effective application of new knowledge.
Developing antiviral drugs that are used for mild and moderate COVID-19 cases, while other treatments to combat serious COVID-19 symptoms require a clear and in-depth knowledge of the molecular mechanisms involved in the life cycle of viruses. To treat the more serious symptoms of COVID-19, including cytokine storms that can cause respiratory failure, septic shock, and, in extreme cases, multi-organ failure, biochemical and molecular research is necessary.
The primary objective of treating all viral infections, including COVID-19, is to inherit host and herd immunity, which can be accomplished by either host infection or vaccination. To control the pandemic with researchers need to create vaccines that can be mass-produced and delivered rapidly across the globe. Standard attenuated vaccines are effective and have been too time-consuming and difficult to produce given the already rapid spreading of COVID-19. So scientists have turned to recombinant RNA and DNA vaccines that are developed with the help of fundamental molecular research.
During these times it is important to invest in research work to develop the field of fundamental molecular research which is essential to develop strategies for therapeutics and increase our ability to combat the current and future pandemics.
