When fighting a new viral outbreak, scientists often spend months determining the microorganism's pathogenesis before developing a targeted drug or vaccine. But as the novel coronavirus rampages through China, time is of the essence and researchers around the world are joining forces to find a speedy cure.

While there is not yet an effective medication or vaccine for the virus, scientists from the United States, the United Kingdom, China and elsewhere are making substantial progress and many existing drugs are being tested in clinical trials for potency against the novel coronavirus.

The World Laureates Association Shanghai Center said it has gathered an all-star team of experts, including Nobel laureates in chemistry Roger Kornberg and Michael Levitt, noted antibody expert Richard Lerner and biologist Raymond Dewk, to help investigate the virus and propose new solutions.

"They're willing to actively exert international scientific talent to support China in combating the epidemic," the center said in a statement on Monday.