hERG optimizations of IMB1603, discovery of alternative benzothiazinones as new antitubercular agents.

IMB1603, a new benzothiazinone lead discovered by our lab, exhibited potent anti-MTB activity in vitro and in vivo, but significant hERG binding potency (IR > 90% at 10 µM). Thus, we embarked on a lead optimization program with the goal of identifying alternative leads that could reduce the hERG liability without sacrificing antimycobacterial potency. Compounds 2c and 4c were identified to maintain the anti-MTB activity (MICs <0.035-0.078 µM), and had lower hERG binding affinity (IR < 50% at 10 µM). Both of them were also found to have acceptable safety and pharmacokinetic properties. Studies to determine the in vivo efficacy of 2c and 4c are currently underway.