Structure-based macrocyclization of α-ketoamides leads to potent inhibitors of coronaviral and enteroviral proteases

Abstract

Viral proteases represent validated targets for direct-acting antivirals and the treatment of associated infections. In co-crystal structures of Mpro of SARS-CoV-2 with peptidomimetic inhibitors, we noticed a spatial proximity of sidechains filling the S1’ and S2 pockets, as well as those filling S3 and S1 pockets. To enhance molecular rigidity, the proximal residues were conformationally fixed by macrocyclization. We report the synthesis of two macrocyclic series, i.e. exocyclic nitriles with linked P3 and P1 residues and endocyclic α-ketoamides with linked P1’ and P2 residues, and characterize their binding modes and bioactivities. The 17-membered macrocyclic α-ketoamide 20 f inhibited Mpro (IC₅₀ = 370 nM) and exerted anti-SARS-CoV-2 effects (EC₅₀ = 1.9 μM). Leveraging structural similarities between Mpro and the 3Cpro of enterovirus D68, we describe with two co-crystal structures how α-ketoamide macrocycles bound to and inhibited the enteroviral protease. Notably, 20 f exhibited very potent antiviral activities with EC₅₀‘s of 33, 133, and 146 nM against EV-D68, EV-A71, and CVB3, respectively. The study demonstrates how broad-spectrum activity can be achieved with direct-acting antivirals. Viral proteases are key targets for developing direct-acting antivirals to combat infections like SARS-CoV-2. Here, the authors synthesize macrocyclic α-ketoamide inhibitors, demonstrating potent inhibition of SARS-CoV-2 and enteroviruses, highlighting macrocyclization’s potential to enhance antiviral efficacy and achieve broad-spectrum activity.