Identification of HCV Inhibitors from a Cell-Based Sub-Genomic Replicon Screen

A high throughput screen of the Pfizer compound collection was carried out using a hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype 1b subgenomic replicon cell line. Those confirmed hits that demonstrated broad spectrum activity without overt cytotoxicity were further evaluated, leading to the identification of a series of pyrrolopyridines with excellent antiviral activity in a fully infectious HCV cell-based assay and pharmacokinetic properties.