Perspectives on SARS-CoV-2 Main Protease Inhibitors

The main protease (M-pro) plays a crucial role in severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) replication and is highly conserved, rendering it one of the most attractive therapeutic targets for SARS-CoV-2 inhibition. Currently, although two drug candidates targeting SARS-CoV-2 M-pro designed by Pfizer are under clinical trials, no SARS-CoV-2 medication is approved due to the long period of drug development. Here, we collect a comprehensive list of 817 available SARS-CoV-2 and SARS-CoV M-pro inhibitors from the literature or databases and analyze their molecular mechanisms of action. The structure-activity relationships (SARs) among each series of inhibitors are discussed. Additionally, we broadly examine available antiviral activity, ADMET (absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity), and animal tests of these inhibitors. We comment on their druggability or drawbacks that prevent them from becoming drugs. This Perspective sheds light on the future development of M-pro inhibitors for SARS-CoV-2 and future coronavirus diseases.

Automated summary

The M-pro enzyme is crucial for the replication of SARS-CoV-2 and is a prime therapeutic target. Despite the availability of numerous M-pro inhibitors, no approved medication for SARS-CoV-2 exists yet due to the lengthy drug development process. Additional research on the mechanisms of these inhibitors and their potential as future antiviral drugs is needed.