Recent developments in hepatitis C antiviral research 1999 - 2000

Structure-activity relationship studies of a bisbenzimidazole-based, Zn(2+)-dependent inhibitor of HCV NS3 serine protease

A survey of isosteric replacements of the phosphonoalanine side chain coupled with a process of conformational constraint of a bisbenzimidazole-based, Zn(2+)-dependent inhibitor of hepatitis C virus (HCV) NS3 serine protease resulted in the identification of novel series of active compounds with extended side chains. However, Zn(2+)-dependent HCV NS3 inhibition was relatively insensitive to the structural variations examined but dependent on the presence of negatively charged functionality. This result was interpreted in the context of an initial electrostatic interaction between protease and inhibitor that is subsequently consolidated by Zn(2+), with binding facilitated by the featureless active site and proximal regions of the HCV NS3 protein.

Biological evaluation of hepatitis C virus helicase inhibitors

A small chemical library has been synthesized and assayed for inhibition of HCV helicase activity. This study provides the structure-activity relationship of the reported inhibitors, with emphasis placed on the aminophenylbenzimidazole moiety and the linkers. Our data highlight the importance of preserving the aminophenylbenzimidazole core and the hydrophobic linkers for biological activity. The development of a robust HCV helicase assay is also described.

The cellular delivery of antisense oligonucleotides and ribozymes

The design and development of antisense oligonucleotides and ribozymes for the treatment of diseases arising from genetic abnormalities has become a real possibility over the past few years. Improvements in oligonucleotide chemistry have led to the synthesis of nucleic acids that are relatively stable in the biological milieu. However, advances in cellular targeting and intracellular delivery will probably lead to more widespread clinical applications. This review looks at recent advances in the in vitro and in vivo delivery of antisense oligodeoxynucleotides and ribozymes.