KR-27452

KR-27452 is an investigational, small-molecule, host-directed antiviral agent belonging to the 2-amido-3-aryl-4-methyl-thiazole chemical class. Developed by the Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), it functions as a potent and selective inhibitor of phosphatidylinositol 4-kinase IIIβ (PI4KIIIβ). This human enzyme is a critical host factor exploited by many positive-sense RNA viruses, including human rhinoviruses (HRVs) and coxsackieviruses, to establish replication organelles. By targeting a host enzyme rather than a viral protein, KR-27452 aims to provide a broad-spectrum therapeutic effect with a high genetic barrier to viral resistance. In preclinical models, the compound has demonstrated efficacy against multiple HRV strains (RV-A, RV-B, and RV-C) and shown favorable oral bioavailability in pharmacokinetic studies, positioning it as a lead candidate for the treatment of respiratory infections associated with the common cold.

Other names

2-amido-3-aryl-4-methyl-thiazole derivative