It is believed to work by inhibiting SARS-CoV-2 papain-like protease (PLpro), a crucial enzyme for viral replication.

[1][2][3][4] The SARS-CoV-2 virus utilizes several proteases to assist in creating proteins that are essential for viral replication.

In a study involving mice infected with SARS-CoV-2, mice orally administered Jun12682 experienced reduced viral loads in their lungs, decreased lung lesions, reduced weight loss, and improved survival when compared to those in the control group.

Laboratory studies have indicated that Jun12682 may retain efficacy against certain strains of SARS-CoV-2 that have developed resistance to other antiviral agents, including nirmatrelvir.

This characteristic may position Jun12682 as an option in the treatment of COVID-19 in cases where viral resistance to existing therapies is a concern.