Synthesis and anti-varicella-zoster virus activity of some novel bicyclic nucleoside inhibitors: effect of enhanced aqueous solubility.
We have recently reported the discovery of an entirely new category of potent antivaricella-zoster virus agents based on novel deoxynucleoside analogues bearing unusual fluorescent bicyclic furo base moieties. Initial studies revealed an absolute requirement of a long alkyl side-chain, with an optimal length of C8-C10, for antiviral activity. However, the impact of this requirement on the physical properties of these compounds is high: inherent lipophilicity and extremely poor aqueous solubility, which may limit the use of these nucleosides as drugs. In order to address this issue, we have now prepared a new series of analogues, bearing ether and glycol type side-chains, designed to improve the aqueous solubility of the compounds. Synthesis of target nucleosides involved Pd-catalysed coupling of terminal alkynes with 5-iodo-2'-deoxyuridine. The 5-alkynyl nucleosides thus obtained were then treated with copper (I) iodide to produce the desired bicyclic analogues. As anticipated, the new compounds exhibited a dramatic increase in aqueous solubility, although antiviral activity was significantly reduced. A possible correlation between antiviral activity and overall compound lipophilicity is discussed.
Welsh School of Pharmacy, Cardiff University, UK.
A
A
Brancale
S
S
Srinivasan
C
C
McGuigan
G
G
Andrei
R
R
Snoeck
E
E
De Clercq
J
J
Balzarini
D000998:Antiviral Agents / Q000138:chemical synthesis* / Q000494:pharmacology*; D014645:Herpesvirus 3, Human / Q000187:drug effects*; D006801:Humans; D011741:Pyrimidine Nucleosides / Q000037:antagonists & inhibitors* / Q000138:chemical synthesis*
D000998:Antiviral Agents; D011741:Pyrimidine Nucleosides