Quinoline-derived SARS-CoV-2 papain-like protease inhibitors are oral antiviral drug candidates

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A lead compound, the quinoline-derived PLpro inhibitor Jun13296, demonstrates substantial protection against SARS-CoV-2 infection and adverse clinical outcomes.


Invention Summary:

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly accelerated the development of antiviral therapies and vaccines. Recent efforts for research to support pandemic preparedness have focused on developing oral antiviral medications that target highly conserved viral components, including polymerases and proteases essential for replication. For example, nirmatrelvir, an inhibitor of the SARS-CoV-2 main protease (Mpro) and a component of Pfizer’s Paxlovid drug product, exhibits broad-spectrum activity against coronaviruses. However, additional antivirals with new mechanisms of action are needed to combat viruses for which no antivirals are available or for which there is known danger of drug resistance. 

Researchers at Rutgers have designed and tested quinoline-derived inhibitors that target the papain-like protease (PLpro) of SARS-CoV-2 and demonstrate high potency. Supported by in vivo data, published results demonstrate oral treatment via lead compound displays improved efficacy over other experimental molecules developed toward the same target.  

Market Applications:

  • Therapeutic Development for Drug-Resistant Coronaviruses 

  • Pandemic Preparedness and Response 

Advantages:

  • Novel Mechanism of Action 

  • Oral Bioavailability with Demonstrated In Vivo Efficacy 

Publications: •    Low-cost

Intellectual Property & Development Status: Non-Provisional application filed. Patent pending. Available for licensing and/or research collaboration. For any business development and other collaborative partnerships, contact:  marketingbd@research.rutgers.edu

Patent Information:
Licensing Manager:
Alex Turo
Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey
alex.turo@rutgers.edu
Business Development:
Eusebio Pires
Senior Manager, Technology Marketing & Business Development
Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey
ep620@research.rutgers.edu
Keywords:
Antiviral