Imagine trying to stop a virus by blocking a specific part of it. Scientists are investigating drugs that target a protein called 3CL

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. This protein is vital for the coronavirus to function and is similar across different types of coronaviruses. It's like finding a weak spot on a castle wall and trying to hit it with a catapult.

Enter Ensitrelvir, a pioneering drug that isn't like traditional ones. It's not sticky, meaning it won't attach to the protein permanently, and it isn't like a tiny piece of protein. It's like a clever spy that can sneak in and out. Scientists used Ensitrelvir as a guide to create 43 new drugs, all with a similar chemical backbone.

Among these, one called A36 stood out. It was great at blocking several types of coronaviruses and didn't harm healthy cells much. A36 also lasted a decent amount of time in the liver, which is important for a drug's effectiveness. When scientists looked at how A36 stuck to the protein using a special microscope, they saw it worked similarly to Ensitrelvir.

A36 has the potential to be a groundbreaking medicine for treating various coronaviruses. However, more tests are needed to confirm this. It's like finding a new path in a forest - you think it might lead somewhere interesting, but you have to walk it to be sure.

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