HCV NS5b RNA-dependent RNA polymerase inhibitors: from alpha,gamma-diketoacids to 4,5-dihydroxypyrimidine- or 3-methyl-5-hydroxypyrimidinonecarboxylic acids. Design and synthesis.

A new class of the HCV NS5b RNA-dependent RNA polymerase inhibitors, the dihyroxypyrimidinecarboxylic acid derivative, was designed from a diketoacid and meconic acid derivative discovered by screening. Mechanism of action and essential moieties required for activity were identified. The corresponding N-methylpyrimidinone was also prepared; both classes are novel, reversible, and selective inhibitors of the HCV NS5b polymerase with improved druglike characteristics.