MK-2748

With the goal of identifying inhibitors of hepatitis C virus (HCV) NS3/4a protease that are potent against a wide range of genotypes and clinically relevant mutant viruses, several subseries of macrocycles were investigated based on observations made during the discovery of MK‐5172. Quinazolinone‐containing macrocycles were identified as promising leads, and optimization for superior cross‐genotype and mutant enzyme potency as well as rat liver and plasma concentrations following oral dosing, led to the development of MK‐2748. Additional investigation of a series of bis‐macrocycles containing a fused 18‐ and 15‐membered ring system were also optimized for the same properties, leading to the discovery of MK‐6325. Both compounds display the broad genotype and mutant potency necessary for clinical development as next‐generation HCV NS3/4a protease inhibitors.