MK-8210

MK-8210 is an investigational, long-acting small molecule HIV-1 capsid inhibitor being developed by Merck & Co. (known as MSD outside the U.S. and Canada). It is designed for the treatment and prevention of HIV-1 infection, aiming to provide a therapeutic option with infrequent dosing requirements. MK-8210 works by binding to the HIV-1 capsid protein (p24), which is critical for multiple stages of the viral replication cycle. By stabilizing or disrupting the capsid, the drug interferes with the nuclear import of the viral pre-integration complex, the assembly and release of new virions, and the proper maturation of the viral core. As of 2024, MK-8210 is in Phase 1 clinical development, with studies focused on evaluating its safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetic profile in healthy volunteers to determine its potential for weekly oral or less frequent administration.