Discovery of highly potent SARS-CoV-2 nsp14 methyltransferase inhibitors based on adenosine 5′-carboxamides

Abstract

The emergence of SARS-CoV-2, the causative agent of COVID-19, has highlighted the need for advanced antiviral strategies. Targeting the coronaviral methyltransferase nsp14, which is essential for RNA capping, offers a promising approach for the development of small-molecule inhibitors. We designed and synthesized a series of adenosine 5'-carboxamide derivatives as potential nsp14 inhibitors and identified coumarin analogs to be particularly effective. Structural modifications revealed the importance of the 5'-carboxyl moiety for the inhibitory activity, showing superior efficacy compared to other modifications. Notably, compound 18l (<b>HK370</b>) demonstrated high selectivity and favorable <i>in vitro</i> pharmacokinetic properties and exhibited moderate antiviral activity in cell-based assays. These findings provide a robust foundation for developing targeted nsp14 inhibitors as a potential treatment for COVID-19 and related diseases.