A groundbreaking new broad-spectrum coronavirus antiviral drug candidate, ASAP-0017445, has been identified by the Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative (DNDi). This candidate represents a significant milestone in the fight against COVID-19 and future potential coronavirus pandemics.
The development of ASAP-0017445 marks a unique approach to antiviral drug discovery, as it is the first coronavirus antiviral to be created through crowdsourcing and open-science practices. What sets this candidate apart is that its origins lie in artificial intelligence (AI), highlighting the intersection of cutting-edge technology and medical research.
ASAP-0017445 is classified as a main protease inhibitor, demonstrating promising efficacy against SARS-CoV-2 and other related viruses, including potential pandemic threats like MERSCoV. This broad-spectrum activity positions the candidate as a versatile tool in combating a range of viral infections.
The research behind ASAP-0017445 was spearheaded by the COVID Moonshot initiative, which was initiated at Diamond Light Source. This global collaboration brought together researchers from around the world who contributed over 18,000 molecule designs aimed at inhibiting the main protease of SARS-CoV-2. The transparent sharing of detailed structures enabled the global scientific community to collectively optimize ASAP-0017445.
Annette von Delft, Head of Anti-Infectives at the Center of Medicines Discovery, University of Oxford, emphasized the goal of developing an accessible and effective antiviral medication to prepare for future coronavirus outbreaks. The open collaboration model of the COVID Moonshot initiative has paved the way for the accelerated discovery of ASAP-0017445, setting a new standard for drug development.
The public disclosure of ASAP-0017445’s structure in March 2025 underscores the commitment to transparency and data sharing in the scientific community. The availability of this data, along with the wealth of information generated during the drug’s development process, offers a valuable resource for researchers worldwide to further advance antiviral drug discovery.
Diamond Light Source’s contribution to this groundbreaking research highlights the crucial role of advanced research infrastructure in driving drug discovery innovation. By leveraging crystallography, computational modeling, and global crowdsourced design, the Moonshot initiative has demonstrated the power of collaborative, open-source approaches in pharmaceutical development.
In conclusion, the emergence of ASAP-0017445 as a pre-clinical coronavirus antiviral candidate represents a significant step forward in the fight against infectious diseases. The innovative blend of crowdsourcing, AI technology, and open-science principles has paved the way for a new era of drug discovery that prioritizes accessibility, transparency, and global collaboration.
