Copper-polypyridine complexes as potent SARS-CoV-2 3CLpro inhibitors: Synthesis, evaluation, and molecular basis based on computational study

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic, driven by SARS-CoV-2, has underscored the urgent need for effective antiviral agents. Research targeting the main protease (3CL^pro), a crucial enzyme in the viral replication process, offers a promising strategy for antiviral drug development. Metals are not only fundamental to the human body but also central to the field of inorganic biochemistry. In this study, we report the design and synthesis of a novel polypyridyl di‑copper coordination complex with superior structural stability and antiviral activity, and characterized by various analytical and spectral techniques. Among the tested compounds, the tetrapyridine‑copper complex (B2) featuring a nitrate counterion demonstrated exceptional inhibition of 3CL^pro and tolerable cytotoxicity. The strong CuCu synergy enables it to adopt a more compact conformation and establish favorable interactions with 3CL^pro. These attributes position it as a compelling candidate for future antiviral therapeutics. Additionally, molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulations, and free energy calculations were employed to elucidate the binding interactions and identify key residues for inhibitor optimization.