SBFM-PL4

SBFM-PL4 is a novel, orally active small molecule inhibitor targeting the papain-like protease (PLpro) of SARS-CoV-2 and related betacoronaviruses. Developed by Sunshine Biopharma, it is designed to block viral replication by inhibiting PLpro, an essential enzyme for coronavirus polyprotein processing and immune evasion. Preclinical studies have shown that SBFM-PL4 exhibits potent antiviral activity at sub-micromolar concentrations in cell cultures infected with various SARS-CoV-2 variants and demonstrates dose-dependent reduction of viral load in the lungs of infected K18-human ACE2 transgenic mice without notable toxicity. The compound displays favorable pharmacokinetics with preferential accumulation in lung tissue over plasma. Research collaborations include the University of Arizona and previously the University of Georgia. As of mid-2025, SBFM-PL4 remains in preclinical development for COVID-19 and potentially other coronavirus infections[1][2][3][6][7].

Other names

SBFM PL4