Host kinase CSNK2 is a target for inhibition of pathogenic β-coronaviruses including SARS-CoV-2 (preprint)

Inhibition of the protein kinase CSNK2 with any of 30 specific and selective inhibitors representing different chemotypes, blocked replication of pathogenic human and murine {beta}-coronaviruses ({beta}-CoV). The potency of in-cell CSNK2A target engagement across the set of inhibitors correlated with antiviral activity and genetic knockdown confirmed the essential role of the CSNK2 holoenzyme in {beta}-CoV replication. Spike protein uptake was blocked by CSNK2A inhibition, indicating that antiviral activity was due in part to a suppression of viral entry. CSNK2A inhibition may be a viable target for development of new broad spectrum anti-{beta}-CoV drugs.