Abstract:
Pan-genotypic HCV inhibitors are described. This invention also relates to methods of using these inhibitors to treat HCV infection.

Description:
FIELD 
       [0001]    The present invention relates to pan-genotypic HCV inhibitors and methods of using the same to treat HCV infection. 
       BACKGROUND 
       [0002]    Hepatitis C virus (“HCV”) is an RNA virus belonging to the Hepacivirus genus in the Flaviviridae family. The enveloped HCV virion contains a positive stranded RNA genome encoding all known virus-specific proteins in a single, uninterrupted, open reading frame. The open reading frame comprises approximately 9500 nucleotides and encodes a single large polyprotein of about 3000 amino acids. The polyprotein comprises a core protein, envelope proteins E1 and E2, a membrane hound protein p7, and the non-structural proteins NS2, NS3, NS4A, NS4B, NS5A and NS5B. 
         [0003]    HCV infection is associated with progressive liver pathology, including cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Chronic hepatitis C may be treated with peginterferon-alpha in combination with ribavirin. Substantial limitations to efficacy and tolerability remain as many users suffer from side effects, and viral elimination from the body is often inadequate. Therefore, there is a need for new drugs to treat HCV infection. 
       SUMMARY 
       [0004]    It was surprisingly discovered that Compound 1 (hereinafter “Compound 1”) and its pharmaceutically acceptable salts are pan-genotypic HCV inhibitors. These compounds are effective in inhibiting a wide array of HCV genotypes and variants, such as HCV genotype 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. 
         [0000]    
       
                 
         
             
             
         
       
     
         [0005]    Accordingly, a first aspect of the invention features methods for treating HCV. The methods comprise administering an effective amount of Compound 1 or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof to an HCV patient, regardless of the specific HCV genotype(s) that the patient has. Therefore, the patient preferably is not genotyped before the treatment, and the treatment can be initiated without pre-screening the patient for specific HCV genotypes. 
         [0006]    In one embodiment of this aspect of the invention, the patient is infected with genotype 2, such as genotype 2a or 2b. In another embodiment of this aspect of the invention, the patient is infected with genotype 3, such as genotype 3a. In another embodiment of this aspect of the invention, the patient is infected with genotype 4, such as genotype 4a. In yet another embodiment of this aspect of the invention, the patient is infected with genotype 5, such as genotype 5a. In still yet another embodiment of this aspect of the invention, the patient is infected with genotype 6, such as genotype 6a. In still yet another embodiment of this aspect of the invention, in particular, the patient is infected with genotype 4a or 6a. In still yet another embodiment of this aspect of the invention, in particular, the patient is infected with genotypes 2, 3, 4, or 6. In still yet another embodiment of this aspect of the invention, in particular, the patient is infected with genotypes 2, 3, 4, and 6. In still yet another embodiment of this aspect of the invention, in particular, the patient is infected with genotypes 2a, 3a, 4a, or 6a. In still yet another embodiment of this aspect of the invention, in particular, the patient is infected with genotypes 2a, 3a, 4a, and 6a. 
         [0007]    In another embodiment of this aspect of the invention, Compound 1 or the salt thereof is combined or co-administered with another anti-HCV agent. Non-limiting examples of said another anti-HCV agent include HCV polymerase inhibitors, HCV protease inhibitors, HCV NS5A inhibitors, CD81 inhibitors, cyclophilin inhibitors, or internal ribosome entry site (IRES) inhibitors. In one example, the patient is infected with genotype 2, such as genotype 2a or 2b. In another example, the patient is infected with genotype 3, such as genotype 3a. In another example, the patient is infected with genotype 4, such as genotype 4a. In yet another example, the patient is infected with genotype 5, such as genotype 5a. In still yet another example, the patient is infected with genotype 6, such as genotype 6a. 
         [0008]    In yet another embodiment of this aspect of the invention, Compound 1 or the salt thereof is combined or co-administered with another HCV NS5A inhibitor or an HCV polymerase inhibitor In one example, the patient is infected with genotype 2, such as genotype 2a or 2b. In another example, the patient is infected with genotype 3, such as genotype 3a. In another example, the patient is infected with genotype 4, such as genotype 4a. In yet another example, the patient is infected with genotype 5, such as genotype 5a. In still yet another example, the patient is infected with genotype 6, such as genotype 6a. 
         [0009]    In another embodiment of this aspect of the invention, Compound 1 or the salt thereof is combined or co-administered with an HCV NS5A inhibitor. In one example, the patient is infected with genotype 2, such as genotype 2a or 2b. In another example, the patient is infected with genotype 3, such as genotype 3a. In another example, the patient is infected with genotype 4, such as genotype 4a. In yet another example, the patient is infected with genotype 5, such as genotype 5a. In still yet another example, the patient is infected with genotype 6, such as genotype 6a. 
         [0010]    In another embodiment of this aspect of the invention, Compound 1 or the salt thereof is combined or co-administered with an HCV polymerase inhibitor. In one example, the patient is infected with genotype 2, such as genotype 2a or 2b. In another example, the patient is infected with genotype 3, such as genotype 3a. In another example, the patient is infected with genotype 4, such as genotype 4a. In yet another example, the patient is infected with genotype 5, such as genotype 5a. In still yet another example, the patient is infected with genotype 6, such as genotype 6a. 
         [0011]    In another embodiment of this aspect of the invention, Compound 1 or the salt thereof is combined or co-administered with an HCV NS5A inhibitor and an HCV polymerase inhibitor. In one example, the patient is infected with genotype 2, such as genotype 2a or 2b. In another example, the patient is infected with genotype 3, such as genotype 3a. In another example, the patient is infected with genotype 4, such as genotype 4a. In yet another example, the patient is infected with genotype 5, such as genotype 5a. In still yet another example, the patient is infected with genotype 6, such as genotype 6a. 
         [0012]    In another embodiment, the patient is identified as in need of treatment with an HCV protease inhibitor (e.g., in need of administration of Compound 1). In another embodiment, the patient is identified as in need of treatment with an HCV protease inhibitor (e.g., Compound 1) due to infection of any of genotype 2, such as genotype 2a or 2b; genotype 3, such as genotype 3a; genotype 4, such as genotype 4a; genotype 5, such as genotype 5a; or genotype 6, such as genotype 6a. In another embodiment, the patient is identified as infected with one or more of any of genotype 2, such as genotype 2a or 2b; genotype 3, such as genotype 3a; genotype 4, such as genotype 4a; genotype 5, such as genotype 5a; or genotype 6, such as genotype 6a. In still yet another embodiment of this aspect of the invention, in particular, the patient is identified as infected with genotype 4a or 6a. In still yet another embodiment of this aspect of the invention, in particular, the patient is identified as infected with genotypes 2, 3, 4, or 6. In still yet another embodiment of this aspect of the invention, in particular, the patient is identified as infected with genotypes 2, 3, 4, and 6. In still yet another embodiment of this aspect of the invention, in particular, the patient is identified as infected with genotypes 2a, 3a, 4a, or 6a. In still yet another embodiment of this aspect of the invention, in particular, the patient is identified as infected with genotypes 2a, 3a, 4a, and 6a. 
         [0013]    In any aspect of the invention, as well as each and every embodiment and example described hereunder, the treatment preferably lasts for less than 24 weeks and does not include administration of interferon to said patient. Such a treatment can, for example, comprise administering Compound 1 or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, together with an HCV NS5A inhibitor or an HCV polymerase inhibitor or a combination of an HCV NS5A inhibitor and an HCV polymerase inhibitor, to said patient, For example, the treatment can comprise administering Compound 1 or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, together with an HCV NS5A inhibitor, to said patient. For another example, the treatment can comprise administering Compound 1 or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, together with an HCV polymerase inhibitor, to said patient. For yet another example, the treatment can comprise administering Compound 1 or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, together with a combination of an HCV NS5A inhibitor and an HCV polymerase inhibitor, to said patient. 
         [0014]    In any aspect of the invention, as well as each and every embodiment and example described hereunder, the treatment preferably lasts for no more than 12 weeks (e.g., the treatment lasts for 8, 9, 10, 11, or 12 weeks; preferably, the treatment lasts for 12 weeks), and does not include administration of interferon to said patient. Such a treatment can, for example, comprise administering Compound 1 or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, together with an HCV NS5A inhibitor or an HCV polymerase inhibitor or a combination of an HCV NS5A inhibitor and an HCV polymerase inhibitor, to said patient. For example, the treatment can comprise administering Compound 1 or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, together with an HCV NS5A inhibitor, to said patient. For another example, the treatment can comprise administering Compound 1 or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, together with an HCV polymerase inhibitor, to said patient. For yet another example, the treatment can comprise administering Compound 1 or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, together with a combination of an HCV NS5A inhibitor and an HCV polymerase inhibitor, to said patient. 
         [0015]    In any aspect of the invention, as well as each and every embodiment and example described hereunder, the treatment may or may not include administration of ribavirin to said patient; for example, the treatment can include administration of ribavirin to said patient. 
         [0016]    In a second aspect, the present invention features methods of treating HCV. The methods comprising administering an effective amount of Compound 1 or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof to an HCV patient, wherein said patient is infected with HCV genotype 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6. 
         [0017]    In one embodiment of this aspect of the invention, the patient is infected with genotype 2, such as genotype 2a or 26. In another embodiment of this aspect of the invention, the patient is infected with genotype 3, such as genotype 3a. In another embodiment of this aspect of the invention, the patient is infected with genotype 4, such as genotype 4a. In yet another embodiment of this aspect of the invention, the patient is infected with genotype 5, such as genotype 5a. In still yet embodiment of this aspect of the invention, the patient is infected with genotype 6, such as genotype 6a. 
         [0018]    In another embodiment of this aspect of the invention, Compound 1 or the salt thereof is combined or co-administered with another anti-HCV agent. Non-limiting examples of said another anti-HCV agent include HCV polymerase inhibitors, HCV protease inhibitors, HCV NS5A inhibitors, CD81 inhibitors, cyclophilin inhibitors, or internal ribosome entry site (IRES) inhibitors. In one example, the patient is infected with genotype 2, such as genotype 2a or 2b. In another example, the patient is infected with genotype 3, such as genotype 3a. In another example, the patient is infected with genotype 4, such as genotype 4a. In yet another example, the patient is infected with genotype 5, such as genotype 5a. In still yet another example, the patient is infected with genotype 6, such as genotype 6a. 
         [0019]    In yet another embodiment of this aspect of the invention, Compound 1 or the salt thereof is combined or co-administered with an HCV NS5A inhibitor or an HCV polymerase inhibitor. In one example, the patient is infected with genotype 2, such as genotype 2a or 2b, in another example, the patient is infected with genotype 3, such as genotype 3a. In another example, the patient is infected with genotype 4, such as genotype 4a. In yet another example, the patient is infected with genotype 5, such as genotype 5a. In still yet another example, the patient is infected with genotype 6, such as genotype 6a. 
         [0020]    In another embodiment of this aspect of the invention, Compound 1 or the salt thereof is combined or co-administered with an HCV NS5A inhibitor. In one example, the patient is infected with genotype 2, such as genotype 2a or 2b. In another example, the patient is infected with genotype 3, such as genotype 3a. In another example, the patient is infected with genotype 4, such as genotype 4a. In yet another example, the patient is infected with genotype 5, such as genotype 5a. In still yet another example, the patient is infected with genotype 6, such as genotype 6a. 
         [0021]    In another embodiment of this aspect of the invention, Compound 1 or the salt thereof is combined or co-administered with an HCV polymerase inhibitor. In one example, the patient is infected with genotype 2, such as genotype 2a or 2b. In another example, the patient is infected with genotype 3, such as genotype 3a. In another example, the patient is infected with genotype 4, such as genotype 4a. In yet another example, the patient is infected with genotype 5, such as genotype 5a. In still yet another example, the patient is infected with genotype 6, such as genotype 6a. 
         [0022]    In another embodiment of this aspect of the invention, Compound 1 or the salt thereof is combined or co-administered with an HCV NS5A inhibitor and an HCV polymerase inhibitor. In one example, the patient is infected with genotype 2, such as genotype 2a or 2b. In another example, the patient is infected with genotype 3, such as genotype 3a. In another example, the patient is infected with genotype 4, such as genotype 4a. In yet another example, the patient is infected with genotype 5, such as genotype 5a. In still yet another example, the patient: is infected with genotype 6, such as genotype 6a. 
         [0023]    In any aspect of the invention, as well as each and every embodiment and example described hereunder, the treatment preferably lasts for less than 24 weeks and does not include administration of interferon to said patient. Such a treatment can, for example, comprise administering Compound 1 or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, together with an HCV NS5A inhibitor or an HCV polymerase inhibitor or a combination of an HCV NS5A inhibitor and an polymerase inhibitor, to said patient. For example, the treatment can comprise administering Compound 1 or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, together with an HCV NS5A inhibitor, to said patient. For another example, the treatment can comprise administering Compound 1 or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, together with an HCV polymerase inhibitor, to said patient. For yet another example, the treatment can comprise administering Compound 1 or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, together with a combination of an HCV NS5A inhibitor and an HCV polymerase inhibitor, to said patient. 
         [0024]    In any aspect of the invention, as well as each and every embodiment and example described hereunder, the treatment preferably lasts for no more than 12 weeks (e.g., the treatment lasts for 8, 9, 10, 11, or 12 weeks; preferably, the treatment lasts for 12 weeks), and does not include administration of interferon to said patient. Such a the treatment can, for example, comprise administering Compound 1 or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, together with an HCV NS5A inhibitor or an HCV polymerase inhibitor or a combination of an HCV NS5A inhibitor and an HCV polymerase inhibitor, to said patient. For example, the treatment can comprise administering Compound 1 or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, together with an HCV NS5A inhibitor, to said patient. For another example, the treatment can comprise administering Compound 1 or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, together with an HCV polymerase inhibitor, to said patient. For yet another example, the treatment can comprise administering Compound 1 or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, together with a combination of an HCV NS5A inhibitor and an HCV polymerase inhibitor, to said patient. 
         [0025]    In any aspect of the invention, as well as each and every embodiment and example described hereunder, the treatment may or may not include administration of ribavirin to said patient; for example, the treatment includes administration of ribavirin to said patient. 
         [0026]    The present invention also features Compound 1 or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof for use to treat an HCV patient regardless of the specific HCV genotype(s) that the patient has. Such uses are illustrated in the first aspect of the invention described above, including each and every embodiment and example described thereunder. 
         [0027]    The present invention further features Compound 1 or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof for use to treat an HCV patient infected with HCV genotype 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6. Such uses are illustrated in the second aspect of the invention described above, including each and every embodiment and example described thereunder. 
         [0028]    The recitation of an embodiment for a variable herein includes that embodiment as any single embodiment or in combination with any other embodiments or portions thereof. The recitation of an embodiment herein includes that embodiment as any single embodiment or in combination with any other embodiments or portions thereof. 
         [0029]    Other features, objects, and advantages of the present invention are apparent in the detailed description that follows. It should be understood, however, that the detailed description, while indicating preferred embodiments of the invention, are given by way of illustration only, not limitation. Various changes and modifications within the scope of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the detailed description. 
     
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0030]    Compound 1 and its synthesis is described in Example 6 in U.S. Patent Application Publication No, 2012/0070416, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference. 
         [0031]    Compound 1 was found to have an EC 50  value of less than 3 nM against many clinically relevant HCV genotypes, such as HCV genotype 1a, 1b. 2a, 3a, 4a, and 6a, and an EC 50  value of less than 1.0 nM against HCV genotype 6a. 
         [0032]    The present invention features the use of Compound 1 or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof to treat HCV as described hereinabove. In any method or use described herein, Compound 1 or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof can be formulated in a suitable liquid or solid dosage form. Preferably, Compound 1 or the salt thereof is formulated in a solid composition comprising Compound 1 (or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof) in amorphous form, a pharmaceutically acceptable hydrophilic polymer, and optionally a pharmaceutically acceptable surfactant. 
         [0033]    A non-limiting way to form an amorphous form of Compound 1 (or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof) is through the formation of solid dispersions with a polymeric carrier. As used herein, the term “solid dispersion” defines a system in a solid state (as opposed to a liquid or gaseous state) comprising at least two components, wherein one component is dispersed throughout the other component or components. For example, an active ingredient or a combination of active ingredients can be dispersed in a matrix comprised of a pharmaceutically acceptable hydrophilic polymer(s) and a pharmaceutically acceptable surfactant(s). The term “solid dispersion” encompasses systems having small particles of one phase dispersed in another phase. These particles are often of less than 400 μm in size, such as less than 100, 10, or 1 μm in size. When a solid dispersion of the components is such that the system is chemically and physically uniform or homogenous throughout or consists of one phase (as defined in thermodynamics), such a solid dispersion is called a “solid solution.” A glassy solution is a solid solution in which a solute is dissolved in a glassy solvent. 
         [0034]    Any method described herein can employ a solid composition which comprises (1) Compound 1 (or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof) in amorphous form, (2) a pharmaceutically acceptable hydrophilic polymer, and (3) a pharmaceutically acceptable surfactant. Compound 1 (or the salt thereof) and the polymer preferably are formulated in a solid dispersion. The surfactant may also be formulated in the same solid dispersion; or the surfactant can be separately combined or mixed with the solid dispersion. 
         [0035]    The solid dispersion employed in this invention preferably is a solid solution, and more preferably a glassy solution. 
         [0036]    A solid dispersion employed in the invention preferably comprises or consists of a single-phase (defined in thermodynamics) in which Compound 1, or a combination of Compound 1 and another anti-HCV agent, is molecularly dispersed in a matrix containing the pharmaceutically acceptable hydrophilic polymer(s). In such cases, thermal analysis of the solid dispersion using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) typically shows only one single T g , and the solid dispersion does not contain any detectable crystalline Compound 1 as measured by X-ray powder diffraction spectroscopy. 
         [0037]    A solid composition employed in the invention can be prepared by a variety of techniques such as, without limitation, melt-extrusion, spray-drying, co-precipitation, freeze drying, or other solvent evaporation techniques, with melt-extrusion and spray-drying being preferred. The melt-extrusion process typically comprises the steps of preparing a melt which includes the active ingredient(s), the hydrophilic polymer(s) and preferably the surfactant(s), and then cooling the melt until it solidifies. “Melting” means a transition into a liquid or rubbery state in which it is possible for one component to get embedded, preferably homogeneously embedded, in the other component or components. In many cases, the polymer component(s) will melt and the other components including the active ingredient(s) and surfactant(s) will dissolve in the melt thereby forming a solution. Melting usually involves heating above the softening point of the polymer(s). The preparation of the melt can take place in a variety of ways. The mixing of the components can take place before, during or after the formation of the melt. For example, the components can be mixed first and then melted or be simultaneously mixed and melted. The melt can also be homogenized in order to disperse the active ingredient(s) efficiently. In addition, it may be convenient first to melt the polymer(s) and then to mix in and homogenize the active ingredient(s). In one example, all materials except surfactant(s) are blended and fed into an extruder, while the surfactant(s) is molten externally and pumped in during extrusion. 
         [0038]    To start a melt-extrusion process, the active ingredient(s) (e.g., Compound 1, or a combination of Compound 1 and at least another anti-HCV agent) can be employed in their solid forms, such as their respective crystalline forms. The active ingredient(s) can also be employed as a solution or dispersion in a suitable liquid solvent such as alcohols, aliphatic hydrocarbons, esters or, in some cases, liquid carbon dioxide. The solvent can be removed, e.g. evaporated, upon preparation of the melt. 
         [0039]    Various additives can also be included in the melt, for example, flow regulators (e.g., colloidal silica), binders, lubricants, fillers, disintegrants, plasticizers, colorants, or stabilizers (e.g., antioxidants, light stabilizers, radical scavengers, and stabilizers against microbial attack). 
         [0040]    The melting and/or mixing can take place in an apparatus customary for this purpose. Particularly suitable ones are extruders or kneaders. Suitable extruders include single screw extruders, intermeshing screw extruders or multiscrew extruders, preferably twin screw extruders, which can be corotating or counterrotating and, optionally, be equipped with kneading disks. It will be appreciated that the working temperatures will be determined by the kind of extruder or the kind of configuration within the extruder that is used. Part of the energy needed to melt, mix and dissolve the components in the extruder can be provided by heating elements. However, the friction and shearing of the material in the extruder may also provide a substantial amount of energy to the mixture and aid in the formation of a homogeneous melt of the components. 
         [0041]    The melt can range from thin to pasty to viscous. Shaping of the extrudate can be conveniently carried out by a calender with two counter-rotating rollers with mutually matching depressions on their surface. The extrudate can be cooled and allow to solidify. The extrudate can also be cut into pieces, either before (hot-cut) or after solidification (cold-cut). 
         [0042]    The solidified extrusion product can be further milled, ground or otherwise reduced to granules. The solidified extrudate, as well as each granule produced, comprises a solid dispersion, preferably a solid solution, of the active ingredient(s) in a matrix comprised of the hydrophilic polymer(s) and optionally the pharmaceutically acceptable surfactant(s). Where the granules do not contain any surfactant, a pharmaceutically acceptable surfactant described above can be added to and blended with the granules. The extrusion product can also be blended with other active ingredient(s) and/or additive(s) before being milled or ground to granules. The granules can be further processed into suitable solid oral dosage forms. 
         [0043]    The approach of solvent evaporation, via spray-drying, provides the advantage of allowing for processability at lower temperatures, if needed, and allows for other modifications to the process in order to further improve powder properties. The spray-dried powder can then be formulated further, if needed, and final drug product is flexible with regards to whether capsule, tablet or any other solid dosage form is desired. 
         [0044]    Exemplary spray-drying processes and spray-drying equipment are described in K. Masters, S PRAY  D RYiNG  H ANDBOOK  (Halstead Press, New York, 4 th  ed., 1985). Non-limiting examples of spray-drying devices that are suitable for the present invention include spray dryers manufactured by Niro Inc. or GEA Process Engineering Inc., Buchi Labortechnik AG, and Spray Drying Systems, Inc. A spray-drying process generally involves breaking up a liquid mixture into small droplets and rapidly removing solvent from the droplets in a container (spray drying apparatus) where there is a strong driving force for evaporation of solvent from the droplets. Atomization techniques include, for example, two-fluid or pressure nozzles, or rotary atomizers. The strong driving force for solvent evaporation can be provided, for example, by maintaining the partial pressure of solvent in the spray drying apparatus well below the vapor pressure of the solvent at the temperatures of the drying droplets. This may be accomplished by either (1) maintaining the pressure in the spray drying apparatus at a partial vacuum; (2) mixing the liquid droplets with a warm drying gas (e.g., heated nitrogen); or (3) both. 
         [0045]    The temperature and flow rate of the drying gas, as well as the spray dryer design, can be selected so that the droplets are dry enough by the time they reach the wall of the apparatus. This help to ensure that the dried droplets are essentially solid and can form a fine powder and do not stick to the apparatus wall. The spray-dried product can be collected by removing the material manually, pneumatically, mechanically or by other suitable means. The actual length of time to achieve the preferred level of dryness depends on the size of the droplets, the formulation, and spray dryer operation. Following the solidification, the solid powder may stay in the spray drying chamber for additional time (e.g., 5-60 seconds) to further evaporate solvent from the solid powder. The final solvent content in the solid dispersion as it exits the dryer is preferably at a sufficiently low level so as to improve the stability of the final product. For instance, the residual solvent content of the spray-dried powder can be less than 2% by weight. Highly preferably, the residual solvent content is within the limits set forth in the International Conference on Harmonization (ICH) Guidelines. In addition, it may be useful to subject the spray-dried composition to further drying to lower the residual solvent to even lower levels. Methods to further lower solvent levels include, but are not limited to, fluid bed drying, infra-red drying, tumble drying, vacuum drying, and combinations of these and other processes. 
         [0046]    Like the solid extrudate described above, the spray dried product contains a solid dispersion, preferably a solid solution, of the active ingredient(s) in a matrix comprised of the hydrophilic polymer(s) and optionally the pharmaceutically acceptable surfactant(s). Where the spray dried product does not contain any surfactant, a pharmaceutically acceptable surfactant described above can be added to and blended with the spray-dried product before further processing. 
         [0047]    Before feeding into a spray dryer, the active ingredient(s) (e.g., Compound 1, or a combination of Compound 1 and at least another anti-HCV agent), the hydrophilic polymer(s), as well as other optional active ingredients or excipients such as the pharmaceutically acceptable surfactant(s), can be dissolved in a solvent. Suitable solvents include, but are not limited to, alkanols (e.g., methanol, ethanol, 1-propanol, 2-propanol or mixtures thereof), acetone, acetone/water, alkanol/water mixtures (e.g., ethanol/water mixtures), or combinations thereof. The solution can also be preheated before being fed into the spray dryer. 
         [0048]    The solid dispersion produced by melt-extrusion, spray-drying or other techniques can be prepared into any suitable solid oral dosage forms. In one embodiment, the solid dispersion prepared by melt-extrusion, spray-drying or other techniques can be compressed into tablets. The solid dispersion can be either directly compressed, or milled or ground to granules or powders before compression. Compression can be done in a tablet press, such as in a steel die between two moving punches. When a solid composition of the present invention comprises Compound 1 and another anti-HCV agent, it is possible to separately prepare solid dispersions of each individual active ingredient and then blend the optionally milled or ground solid dispersions before compacting. Compound 1 and other active ingredient(s) can also be prepared in the same solid dispersion, optionally milled and/or blended with other additives, and then compressed into tablets. 
         [0049]    At least one additive selected from flow regulators, binders, lubricants, fillers, disintegrants, or plasticizers may be used in compressing the solid dispersion. These additives can be mixed with ground or milled solid dispersion before compacting. Various other additives may also be used in preparing a solid composition of the present invention, for example dyes such as azo dyes, organic or inorganic pigments such as aluminium oxide or titanium dioxide, or dyes of natural origin; stabilizers such as antioxidants, light stabilizers, radical scavengers, stabilizers against microbial attack. 
         [0050]    In any aspect, embodiment and example described herein, Compound 1 (or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof) can be administered to an HC V patient in combination with another anti-HCV agent. Preferably, such a treatment does not include the use of interferon throughout the treatment regimen. The treatment regimen can last, for example and without limitation, 24, 23, 22, 21, 20, 19, 18, 17, 16, 15, 14, 13, 12, 11, 10, 9 or 8 weeks. Preferably, the treatment regimen last, for example and without limitation, 12 weeks. The treatment regimen may also last less than 12 weeks, such as 11, 10, 9 or 8 weeks. 
         [0051]    In any aspect, embodiment and example described herein, suitable anti-HCV agents that can be combined with Compound 1 (or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof) include, but are not limited to, HCV polymerase inhibitors (e.g., nucleoside polymerase inhibitors or non-nucleoside polymerase inhibitors), other HCV protease inhibitors, HCV helicase inhibitors, HCV NS5A inhibitors, HCV entry inhibitors, cyclophilin inhibitors, CD81 inhibitors, internal ribosome entry site inhibitors, or any combination thereof. For instance, said another anti-HCV agent can be an HCV polymerase inhibitor. For another instance, said another anti-HCV agent can be an HCV NS5A inhibitor. 
         [0052]    In any aspect, embodiment and example described herein, said another anti-HCV agent can also include two or more HCV inhibitors. For instance, said another anti-HCV agent can be a combination of an HCV polymerase inhibitor and another HCV NS5A inhibitor. For another instance, said another anti-HCV agent can be a combination of two other different HCV protease inhibitors. For another instance, said another anti-HCV agent can be a combination of two different HCV polymerase inhibitors (e.g., one is a nucleoside or nucleotide polymerase inhibitor and the other is a non-nucleoside polymerase inhibitor; or both are nucleoside or nucleotide polymerase inhibitors; or both are non-nucleoside polymerase inhibitor). In yet another example, said another anti-HCV agent can be a combination of an HCV NS5A inhibitor and an HCV polymerase inhibitor. In yet another example, said another anti-HCV agent can be a combination of an HCV NS5A inhibitor and another HCV protease inhibitor. In still another example, said another anti-HCV agent can be a combination of two other HCV NS5A inhibitors. 
         [0053]    Specific examples of anti-HCV agents that are suitable for combination with Compound 1 (or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof) in any aspect, embodiment or example described herein include, but are not limited to, PSI-7977 (Pharmasset/Gilead), PSI-7851 (Pharmasset/Gilead), PSI-938 (Pharmasset/Gilead), PF-00868554, ANA-598, IDX184, IDX102, IDX375, GS-9190, VCH-759, VCH-916, MK-3281, BCX-4678, MK-3281, VBY708, ANA598, GL59728, GL60667, BMS-790052, BMS-791325, BMS-650032, BMS-824393, GS-9132, ACH-1095, AP-H005, A-831 (Arrow Therapeutics), A-689 (Arrow Therapeutics), INX08189 (Inhibitex), AZD2836, telaprevir, boceprevir, ITMN-191 (Intermune/Roche), BI-201335, VBY-376, VX-500 (Vertex), PHX-B, ACH-1625, IDX136, IDX316, VX-813 (Vertex), SCH 900518 (Schering-Plough), TMC-435 (Tibotec), ITMN-191 (Intermune, Roche), MK-7009 (Merck), IDX-PI (Novartis), BI-201335 (Boehringer Ingelheim), R7128 (Roche), MK-3281 (Merck), MK-0608 (Merck), PF-868554 (Pfizer), PF-4878691 (Pfizer), IDX-184 (Novartis), IDX-375, PPI-461 (Presidio), BILB-1941 (Boehringer Ingelheim), GS-9190 (Gilead), BMS-790052 (BMS), CTS-1027 (Conatus), GS-9620 (Gilead), PF-4878691 (Pfizer), R05303253 (Roche), ALS-2200 (Alios BioPharma/Vertex), ALS-2158 (Altos BioPharma/Vertex), GSK62336805 (GlaxoSmithKline), or any combinations thereof. 
         [0054]    Non-limiting examples of HCV protease inhibitors that are suitable for combination with Compound 1 (or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof) in any aspect, embodiment or example described herein include ACH-1095 (Achillion), ACH-1625 ACH-2684 (Achillion), AVL-181 (Avila), AVL-192 (Avila), BI-201335 (Boehringer Ingelheim), BMS-650032 (BMS), boceprevir, danoprevir, GS-9132 (Gilead), GS-9256 (Gilead), (IS-9451 (Gilead), IDX-136 (Idenix), IDX-316 (Idenix), IDX-320 (Idenix), MK-5172 (Merck), narlaprevir, PHX-1766 (Phenomix), telaprevir, TMC-435 (Tibotec), vaniprevir, VBY708 (Virobay), VX-500 (Vertex), VX-813 (Vertex), VX-985 (Vertex), or any combination thereof. Non-limiting examples of HCV polymerase inhibitors that are suitable for combination with Compound 1 (or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof) in any aspect, embodiment or example described herein include ANA-598 (Anadys), BI-207127 (Boehringer Ingelheim), BILB-1941 (Boehringer Ingelheim), BMS-791325 (BMS), filibuvir, GL59728 (Glaxo), GL60667 (Glaxo), GS-9669 (Gilead), IDX-375 (Idenix), MK-3281 (Merck), tegobuvir, TMC-647055 (Tibotec), VCH-759 (Vertex &amp; ViraChem), VCH-916 (ViraChem), VX-222 (VCH-222) (Vertex &amp; ViraChem), VX-759 (Vertex), GS-6620 (Gilead), IDX-102 (Idenix). IDX-184 (Idenix), INX-189 (Inhibitex), MK-0608 (Merck), PSI-7977 (Pharmasset/Gilead), PSI-938 (Pharmasset/Gilead), RG7128 (Roche), TMC64912 (Medivir), GSK625433 (GlaxoSmithKline), BCX-4678 (BioCryst), ALS-2200 (Alios BioPharma/Vertex), ALS-2158 (Alios BioPharma/Vertex), or any combination thereof. A polymerase inhibitor may be a nucleotide polymerase inhibitor, such as GS-6620 (Gilead), IDX-102 (Idenix), IDX-184 (Idenix), INX-189 (Inhibitex), MK-0608 (Merck), PSI-7977 (Pharmasset/Gilead), PSI-938 (Pharmasset/Gilead), RG7128 (Roche), TMC64912 (Medivir), ALS-2200 (Alios BioPharma/Vertex), ALS-2158 (Alios BioPharma/Vertex), or any combination therefore. A polymerase inhibitor may also be a non-nucleoside polymerase inhibitor, such as ANA-598 (Anadys), BI-207127 (Boehringer Ingelheim), BILB-1941 (Boehringer Ingelheim), BMS-791325 (BMS), filibuvir, GL59728 (Glaxo), GL60667 (Glaxo), GS-9669 (Gilead), IDX-375 (Idenix), MK-3281 (Merck), tegobuvir, TMC-647055 (Tibotec), VCH-759 (Vertex &amp; ViraChem), VCH-916 (ViraChem), VX-222 (VCH-222) (Vertex &amp; ViraChem), VX-759 (Vertex), or any combination thereof. Non-limiting examples of NS5A inhibitors that are suitable for combination with Compound 1 (or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof) in any aspect, embodiment or example described herein include GSK62336805 (GlaxoSmithKline), ACH-2928 (Achillion), ACH-3102 (Achillion), AZD2836 (Astra-Zeneca), AZD7295 (Astra-Zeneca), BMS-790052 (BMS), BMS-824393 (BMS), EDP-239 (Enanta/Novartis), GS-5885 (Gilead), IDX-719 (Idenix), MK-8742 (Merck), PPI-1301 (Presidio), PPI-461 (Presidio), or any combination thereof. Non-limiting examples of cyclophilin inhibitors that are suitable for combination with Compound 1 (or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof) in any aspect, embodiment or example described herein include alisporovir (Novartis &amp; Debiopharm), NM-811 (Novartis), SCY-635 (Scynexis), or any combination thereof. Non-limiting examples of HCV entry inhibitors that are suitable for combination with Compound 1 (or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof) in any aspect, embodiment or example described herein include ITX-4520 (iTherx), ITX-5061 (iTherx), or a combination thereof. 
         [0055]    In any aspect, embodiment or example described herein, Compound 1 (or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof) can be administered, for example and without limitation, concurrently with said anther anti-HCV agent. Compound 1 (or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof) can also be administered, for example and without limitation, sequentially with said another anti-HCV agent. For instance, Compound 1 (or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof) can be administered immediately before or after the administration of said another anti-HCV agent. The frequency of administration may be the same or different. For example, Compound 1 (or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof) and said another anti-HCV agent can be administered once daily. For another example, Compound 1 (or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof) can be administered once daily, and said another anti-HCV agent can be administered twice daily. 
         [0056]    In any aspect, embodiment or example described herein, Compound 1 (or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof) can be co-formulated with said another anti-HCV agent in a single dosage form. Non-limiting examples of suitable dosage forms include liquid or solid dosage forms. Preferably, the dosage form is a solid dosage form. More preferably, the dosage form is a solid dosage form in which Compound 1 (or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof) is in amorphous form, or highly preferably molecularly dispersed in a matrix which comprises a pharmaceutically acceptable water-soluble polymer and a pharmaceutically acceptable surfactant. Said another anti-HCV agent can also be in amorphous form, or molecularly dispersed in the same matrix or a different matrix which comprises a pharmaceutically acceptable water-soluble polymer and a pharmaceutically acceptable surfactant. Said another anti-HCV agent can also be formulated in different form(s) (e.g., in a crystalline form). 
         [0057]    As a non-limiting alternative, Compound 1 (or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof) and said another anti-HCV agent can be formulated in different dosage forms. For instance, Compound 1 (or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof) and said another anti-HCV agent can be formulated in different respective solid dosage forms. 
         [0058]    In any aspect, embodiment or example described herein, Compound 1 or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof may be administered in a suitable amount such as, for example, in doses of from about 0.1 mg/kg to about 200 mg/kg body weight, or from about 0.25 mg/kg to about 100 mg/kg, or from about 0.3 mg/kg to about 30 mg/kg. As another non-limiting example, Compound 1 (or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof) may be administered in a total daily dose amount of from about 5 mg to about 300 mg, or from about 25 mg to about 200 mg, or from about 25 mg to about 50 mg or an amount there between. Single dose compositions may contain such amounts or submultiples thereof to make up the daily dose. 
         [0059]    It will be understood, however, that the specific dose level for any particular patient will depend upon a variety of factors including the activity of the specific compound employed, the age, body weight, general health, sex, diet, time of administration, route of administration, rate of excretion, drug combination, and the severity of the disease undergoing therapy. It will also be understood that the total daily dosage of the compounds and compositions to be administered will be decided by the attending physician within the scope of sound medical judgment. 
         [0060]    The following table lists non-limiting examples of a combination of Compound 1 (or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof) and another anti-HCV agent that can be used in any aspect, embodiment or example described herein. For each treatment, Compound 1 (or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof) and said another anti-HCV agent can be administered daily to an HCV patient. Each treatment can be interferon-free. Administration of ribavirin can be included in each regimen. However, the present invention contemplates that each treatment regimen can be both interferon- and ribavirin-free. In addition, interferon and/or ribavirin can be included in each treatment regimen if needed. Each treatment regimen may also optionally comprise administering one or more other anti-HCV agents to the patient. The duration of each treatment regimen may last, for example and without limitation, 8-48 weeks, depending on the patient&#39;s response. In any given regimen described in Table 1, the drugs can be, for example and without limitation, co-formulated in a single solid dosage form. For instance, all drugs used in a regimen can be co-formulated in amorphous forms or molecularly dispersed in a matrix comprising a pharmaceutically acceptable water-soluble polymer and optionally a pharmaceutically acceptable surfactant; for another instance, Compound 1 is formulated in amorphous form or molecularly dispersed in a matrix comprising a pharmaceutically acceptable water-soluble polymer and optionally a pharmaceutically acceptable surfactant, and the other drug is in crystalline form(s) and combined with amorphous Compound 1 in a single solid dosage form. For yet another instance, Compound 1 is formulated in a different dosage form than that of the other drug. 
         [0000]    
       
         
               
             
               
               
             
               
               
               
             
           
               
                 TABLE 1 
               
             
             
               
                   
               
               
                 Non-Limiting Examples of Interferon-free Treatment 
               
               
                 Regimens (with or without ribavirin) 
               
             
          
           
               
                 Regimen 
                 Drugs used in the treatment 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
           
               
                 1 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 ACH-1095 (Achillion) 
               
               
                 2 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 ACH-1625 (Achillion) 
               
               
                 3 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 ACH-2684 (Achillion) 
               
               
                 4 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 ACH-2928 (Achillion) 
               
               
                 5 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 alisporivir (Debio 025; Novartis) 
               
               
                 6 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 ALS-2158 
               
               
                 7 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 ALS-2200 
               
               
                 8 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 ANA-598 (setrobuvir, Anadys) 
               
               
                 9 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 ANA-773 (Anadys) 
               
               
                 10 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 AVL-181 (Avila) 
               
               
                 11 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 AVL-192 (Avila) 
               
               
                 12 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 AZD2836 (Astra-Zeneca) 
               
               
                 13 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 AZD7295 (Astra-Zeneca) 
               
               
                 14 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 BCX-4678 (BioCryst) 
               
               
                 15 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 BI-201335 (Boehringer Ingelheim) 
               
               
                 16 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 BI-207127 (Boehringer Ingelheim) 
               
               
                 17 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 BILB-1941 (Boehringer Ingelheim) 
               
               
                 18 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 BMS-650032 (BMS) 
               
               
                 19 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 BMS-790052 (BMS) 
               
               
                 20 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 BMS-791325 (BMS) 
               
               
                 21 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 BMS-824393 (BMS) 
               
               
                 22 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 boceprevir 
               
               
                 23 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 CTS-1027 (Conatus) 
               
               
                 24 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 danoprevir 
               
               
                 25 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 VX-985 (Vertex) 
               
               
                 26 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 filibuvir (PF-00868554, Pfizer) 
               
               
                 27 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 GL59728 (Glaxo) 
               
               
                 28 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 GL60667 (Glaxo) 
               
               
                 29 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 GS-5885 (Gilead) 
               
               
                 30 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 GS-6620 (Gilead) 
               
               
                 31 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 GS-9132 (Gilead) 
               
               
                 32 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 GS-9256 (Gilead) 
               
               
                 33 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 GS-9451 (Gilead) 
               
               
                 34 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 GS-9620 (Gilead) 
               
               
                 35 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 GS-9669 (Gilead) 
               
               
                 36 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 GSK62336805 
               
               
                 37 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 GSK625433 (GlaxoSmithKline) 
               
               
                 38 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 IDX-102 (Idenix) 
               
               
                 39 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 IDX-136 (Idenix) 
               
               
                 40 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 IDX-184 (Idenix) 
               
               
                 41 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 IDX-316 (Idenix) 
               
               
                 42 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 IDX-320 (Idenix) 
               
               
                 43 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 IDX-375 (Idenix) 
               
               
                 44 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 INX-189 (Inhibitex) 
               
               
                 45 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 ITX-4520 (iTherx) 
               
               
                 46 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 ITX-5061 (iTherx) 
               
               
                 47 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 MK-0608 (Merck) 
               
               
                 48 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 MK-3281 (Merck) 
               
               
                 45 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 MK-5172 (Merck) 
               
               
                 50 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 narlaprevir 
               
               
                 52 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 NM-811 (Novartis) 
               
               
                 53 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 PF-4878691 (Pfizer) 
               
               
                 54 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 PHX-1766 (Phenomix) 
               
               
                 55 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 PPI-1301 (Presidio) 
               
               
                 56 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 PPI-461 (Presidio) 
               
               
                 57 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 PSI-7977 (Pharmasset/Gilead) 
               
               
                 58 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 PSI-938 (Pharmasset/Gilead) 
               
               
                 59 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 mericitabine (RG7128; Roche) 
               
               
                 60 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 RO5303253 (Roche) 
               
               
                 61 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 SCY-635 (/Scynexis/) 
               
               
                 62 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 tegobuvir 
               
               
                 63 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 telaprevir 
               
               
                 64 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 TMC-435 (Tibotec) 
               
               
                 65 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 TMC-647055 (Tibotec) 
               
               
                 66 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 TMC64912 (Medivir) 
               
               
                 67 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 vaniprevir 
               
               
                 68 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 VBY708 (Virobay) 
               
               
                 69 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 VCH-759 (Vertex &amp; ViraChem) 
               
               
                 70 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 VCH-916 (ViraChem) 
               
               
                 71 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 VX-222 (VCH-222) (Vertex &amp; 
               
               
                   
                   
                 ViraChem) 
               
               
                 72 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 VX-500 (Vertex) 
               
               
                 73 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 VX-759 (Vertex) 
               
               
                 74 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 VX-813 (Vertex) 
               
               
                 75 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 TMC649128 (Medivir) 
               
               
                 76 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 tegobuvir (GS-9190; Gilead) 
               
               
                 77 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 GI-5005 (GlobeImmune) 
               
               
                 78 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 IMO-2125 (Idera) 
               
               
                 79 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 ITX-5061 (iTherx) 
               
               
                 80 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 miR-122 (Regulus) 
               
               
                 81 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 Miravirsen (SPC3649; Santaris) 
               
               
                 82 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 ACH-3102 
               
               
                 83 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 EDP-239 
               
               
                 84 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 IDX-719 
               
               
                 85 
                 Compound 1 (or its salt) 
                 MK-8742 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
         [0061]    It should be understood that the above-described embodiments and the following examples are given by way of illustration, not limitation. Various changes and modifications within the scope of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the present description. 
       Example 1 
     Antiviral Activity of Compound 1 Against HCV Replicons Containing NS3 Genes Obtained from Genotype 1, 2, 3, 4, or 6 HCV Infected Humans 
       [0062]    Each compound&#39;s anti-HCV activity can be determined by measuring the activity of the luciferase reporter gene in the replicon in the presence of 5% FBS. The luciferase reporter gene, and selectable marker gene for replicons stably maintained in cell lines, is placed under the translational control of the poliovirus IRES instead of the HCV IRES, and HuH-7 cells are used to support the replication of the replicon. 
         [0063]    The inhibitory activities of the compounds of the present invention can be evaluated using a variety of assays known in the art. For instance, stable subgenomic replicon cell lines can be used for compound characterization in cell culture, including those derived from genotypes 1a-H77, 1b-N and 1b-Con1, obtained from University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Tex. (1a-H77 and 1b-N) or Apath, LLC, St. Louis, Mo. (1b-Con1). Chimeric replicons using the genotype 1a or 1b replicons with insertion of NS3 genes from isolates from humans infected with genotypes 1a or 1b can be used to measure inhibitory activity against a panel of the target protein from natural isolates. Chimeric replicons using the genotype 1a or 1b replicons with insertion of NS3 genes from isolates from humans infected with genotypes 3a, 4 or 6 can be used to measure inhibitory activity against representatives of those genotypes. The genotype 1a replicon construct contains the NS3-NS5B coding region derived from the H77 strain of HCV (1a-H77). The replicon also has a firefly luciferase reporter and a neomycin phosphotransferase (Neo) selectable marker. These two coding regions, separated by the FMDV 2a protease, comprise the first cistron of the bicistronic replicon construct, with the second cistron containing the NS3-NS5B coding region with addition of adaptive mutations E1202G, K1691R, K2040R and S2204I. The 1b-Con1 and 1b-N replicon constructs are identical to the 1a-H77 replicon, except that the HCV 5′ UTR, 3′ UTR, and NS3-NS5B coding region are derived from the 1b-Con1 or 1b-N strain, and the adaptive mutations are K1609E. K1846T and Y3005C for 1b-Con1 or A1098T, E1202G, and S22041 for 1b-N. In addition, the 1b-Con1 replicon construct contains a poliovirus IRES between the HCV IRES and the luciferase gene. Replicon cell lines can be maintained in Dulbecco&#39;s modified Eagles medium (DMEM) containing 10% (v/v) fetal bovine serum (FBS), 100 IU/ml penicillin, 100 mg/ml streptomycin (Invitrogen), and 200 mg/ml G418 (Invitrogen). 
         [0064]    The inhibitory effects of the compounds of the invention on HCV replication can also be determined by measuring activity of the luciferase reporter gene encoded by subgenomic replicons not containing the Neo selectable marker, that are transiently expressed in cells. The adaptive mutations encoded by the 1a-H77, 1b-N and 1b-Con-1 replicons are the same as listed above. The 1b-Con1 replicon used for these transient assays contains the NS2-NS5B coding region rather than the NS3-5B coding region. These replicons may encode target NS3 genes as described for stable subgenomic replicons or they may encode amino acid variants that confer varying degrees of susceptibility to the drug. For example, variants could include R155K, D168E or D168V in a genotype 1a NS3 gene; R155K or D168V in a genotype 1b NS3 gene; S138T, A166T or Q168R in a genotype 3a NS3 gene. For example, cells can be transfected with the replicon by electroporation and seeded into 96 well plates at a density of 5000 cells per well in 100 μl DMEM containing 5% FBS. Compounds diluted in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) to generate a 200× stock in a series of eight half-log dilutions can then be further diluted 100-fold in the medium containing 5% FBS and added to the cell culture plates already containing 100 μl of DMEM with 5% FBS. After an incubation period of either 3 or 4 days, 30 μl of Passive Lysis buffer (Promega) can be added to each well, with incubation for 15 minutes with rocking to lyse the cells. Luciferin solution (100 μl, Promega) can be added to each well, and luciferase activity can be measured with a luminometer. The percent inhibition of HCV RNA replication can be calculated for each compound concentration and the EC 50  value can be calculated using nonlinear regression curve fitting to the 4-parameter logistic equation and GraphPad Prism 4 software. 
         [0065]    The antiviral effects of Compound 1 were determined in stable replicon cells by measuring the reduction of firefly luciferase. In order to estimate the effect of plasma proteins on the antiviral activity, the compound was tested in the presence of 5% PBS. The results in Table 2 (0% Human Plasma) demonstrate that Compound 1 has excellent potency against genotype 1a and 1b replicons, with mean EC 50  values that range between 0.85 and 0.94 nM, and against genotype 2a, 3a, 4a, and 6a replicons, with mean EC 50  values that range between 0.86 and 2.8 nM in the presence of 5% FBS. The results in Table 3 (40% Human Plasma) demonstrate that Compound 1 has excellent potency against genotype 1a and 1b replicons, with mean EC 50  values that range between 5 and 10 nM in the presence of 5% FBS. 
         [0066]    Compound 1 inhibited replication of HCV stable subgenomic replicons containing NS3 genes from GT 1a, 1b, 2a, 3a, 4a, or 6a with EC50 values ranging from 0.85 to 2.8 nM. Of note, Compound 1 was potent against replicon containing GT3a protease, with an EC50 value of 1.6 nM. Compound 1 retained its activity against common GT1a and 1b variants at NS3 amino acid positions 155 and 168 that conferred resistance to other HCV protease inhibitors (Pis). Resistant colony selection studies in GT1a and 1b subgenomic replicon cells identified A156T in GT1a and A156V in GT1b as the most frequent variants, which conferred 1400- and 1800-fold reduced susceptibility to Compound 1, respectively. However, these variants had in vitro replication capacities of only 1.5% and 9.2% that of their corresponding wild-type replicons. In a replicon containing GT3a NS3 protease, Compound 1 selected very few colonies at concentrations ≧100-fold over its EC50 value. The colonies that survived the selection contained either A156G alone, or Q168R co-selected with Y56H, which conferred 1500- or 1100-fold loss in susceptibility to Compound 1, respectively. 
         [0000]    
       
         
               
             
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                 TABLE 2 
               
             
             
               
                   
               
               
                 Antiviral Activity of Compound 1 in the HCV 
               
               
                 Subgenomic Stable Replicon Cell Culture Assay 
               
             
          
           
               
                   
                 HCV Replicon 
                   
                 0% Human Plasma a   
               
               
                   
                 Subtype 
                 N b   
                 Mean EC 50 , nM, ±Std. Dev. 
               
               
                   
                   
               
               
                   
                 Genotype 1a 
                 9 
                 0.85 ± 0.15 
               
               
                   
                 Genotype 1b 
                 8 
                 0.94 ± 0.35 
               
               
                   
                 Genotype 2a 
                 2 
                 2.7 ± 1.1 
               
               
                   
                 Genotype 3a 
                 2 
                  1.6 ± 0.49 
               
               
                   
                 Genotype 4a 
                 4 
                  2.8 ± 0.41 
               
               
                   
                 Genotype 6a 
                 4 
                 0.86 ± 0.11 
               
               
                   
                   
               
               
                   
                   a The 0% human plasma assay contains 5% fetal bovine serum 
               
               
                   
                   b Number of independent replicates 
               
               
                   
                 c. ND: Not Determined 
               
             
          
         
       
     
         [0000]    
       
         
               
             
               
               
               
               
             
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                 TABLE 3 
               
             
             
               
                   
               
               
                 Antiviral Activity of Compound 1 in the HCV 
               
               
                 Subgenomic Stable Replicon Cell Culture Assay 
               
             
          
           
               
                   
                 HCV Replicon 
                   
                 4% Human Plasma a   
               
               
                   
                 Subtype 
                 N b   
                 Mean EC 50 , nM, ±Std. Dev. 
               
               
                   
                   
               
             
          
           
               
                   
                 Genotype 1a 
                 10 
                 5.3 ± 1.0 
               
               
                   
                 Genotype 1b 
                 8 
                  10 ± 5.0 
               
               
                   
                 Genotype 2a 
                   
                 ND 
               
               
                   
                 Genotype 3a 
                   
                 ND 
               
               
                   
                 Genotype 4a 
                   
                 ND 
               
               
                   
                 Genotype 6a 
                   
                 ND 
               
               
                   
                   
               
               
                   
                   a The 0% human plasma assay contains 5% fetal bovine serum 
               
               
                   
                   b Number of independent replicates 
               
               
                   
                 c. ND: Not Determined 
               
             
          
         
       
     
         [0067]    The foregoing description of the present invention provides illustration and description, but is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise one disclosed. Modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings or may be acquired from practice of the invention. Thus, it is noted that the scope of the invention is defined by the claims and their equivalents.