Novel 4,4-Disubstituted Piperidine-Based C–C Chemokine Receptor-5 Inhibitors with High Potency against Human Immunodeficiency Virus-1 and an Improved human Ether-a-go-go Related Gene (hERG) Profile

Abstract

We recently described ( J. Med. Chem. 2008 , 51 , 6538 - 6546 ) a novel class of CCR5 antagonists with strong anti-HIV potency. Herein, we detail SAR converting leads 1 and 2 to druglike molecules. The pivotal structural motif enabling this transition was the secondary sulfonamide substituent. Further fine-tuning of the substituent pattern in the sulfonamide paved the way to enhancing potency and bioavailability and minimizing hERG inhibition, resulting in discovery of clinical compound 122 (GSK163929).