Ferrocene-based inhibitors of hepatitis C virus replication that target NS5A with low picomolar in vitro antiviral activity.

An unprecedented series of organometallic HCV (hepatitis C virus) NS5A (nonstructural 5A protein) replication complex inhibitors that incorporates a 1,1'-ferrocenediyl scaffold was explored. This scaffold introduces the elements of linear flexibility and non-planar topology that are unconventional for this class of inhibitors. Data from 2-D NMR spectroscopic analyses of these complexes in solution support an anti (unstacked) arrangement of the pharmacophoric groups.