Inhibition mechanism of SARS-CoV-2 main protease by ebselen and its derivatives.

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has triggered global efforts to develop therapeutics. The main protease of SARS-CoV-2 (M), critical for viral replication, is a key target for therapeutic development. An organoselenium drug called ebselen has been demonstrated to have potent M inhibition and antiviral activity.