A genome-wide host-directed screening study identified both antiviral drug candidates and cellular signaling pathways that SARS-CoV-2 appears to exploit. Published in npj Viruses, the research used the host genome as an experimental target space, shifting emphasis from viral proteins alone toward host machinery involved in viral replication and spread. The work reported actionable host pathways suitable for follow-up, using large-scale screening to map which perturbations reduced viral outcomes. The study’s design supports a pipeline model where host-targeted interventions can complement direct-acting antivirals. The results also provide a framework for interpreting pro-viral routes that may be more difficult for virus-centric strategies to address alone.