Potent Hepatitis C Virus NS5A Inhibitors Containing a Benzidine Core

Here we report the discovery of a series of potent hepatitis C virus (HCV) NS5A inhibitors based on the benzidine prolinamide backbone. Taking a simple synthetic route, we developed a novel inhibitor structure, which allows easy modification, and through optimization of the capping group, we identified compound 6 with highly potent anti-HCV activity. Compound 6 is nontoxic and is anticipated to be an effective HCV drug candidate.