Patent Evaluation Anti-infectives: Novel derivatives of ′-D-neuraminic acid for the treatment of viral infection

Abstract

This patent from Biota Scientific Management PTY Ltd. discloses compounds that are inhibitors of neuraminidases (from micro-organisms), in particular neuraminidases found on the surface of orthomyxoviruses and paramyxoviruses. Selective and potent inhibitors of viral neuraminidase are thought to prevent infection by viruses which require this enzyme for replication and infectivity.

The compounds disclosed in this patent comprise a new class of compounds consisting of 2,6-dideoxy-2,3-didehydro-6-thio derivatives of ′-D-neuraminic acid. These compounds are within the scope of compounds described and claimed but not exemplified, in a previous patent application [101]. The compounds disclosed in the earlier patent are analogues of 2-deoxy-2,3-dehydro-N-acetylneuraminic acid (DANA). One such analogue, 4-guanidino-2,4-dideoxy-2,3-didehydro-N-acetylneuraminic acid, is a selective and potent inhibitor of influenza A and B virus neuraminidase and has shown promise in clinical trials for the treatment of influenza virus infection.

The patent also describes methods for the preparation of 2,6-dideoxy-2,3-didehydro-6-thio derivatives of ′-D-neuraminic acid, the pharmaceutical formulations of these compounds, and their intended use as antiviral agents.