DISEASES ASSOCIATED WITH HBV INFECTIONS

PRIORITY CLAIM

This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/609,199 filed December 21, 2017, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure is related to isoxazole compounds, pharmaceutical compositions comprising these compounds, chemical processes for preparing these compounds and their use in the treatment of diseases associated with HBV infection in animals, in particular humans.

BACKGROUND

Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a significant global health problem, affecting over 5% of the world population (over 350 million people worldwide and 1.25 million individuals in the U.S.).

Despite the availability of a prophylactic HBV vaccine, the burden of chronic HBV infection continues to be a significant unmet worldwide medical problem, due to suboptimal treatment options and sustained rates of new infections in most parts of the developing world. Current treatments do not provide a cure and are limited to only two classes of agents (interferon alpha and nucleoside

analogues/inhibitors of the viral polymerase); drug resistance, low efficacy, and tolerability issues limit their impact. The low cure rates of HBV are attributed at least in part to the fact that complete suppression of virus production is difficult to achieve with a single antiviral agent. However, persistent suppression of HBV DNA slows liver disease progression and helps to prevent hepatocellular carcinoma. Current therapy goals for HBV-infected patients are directed to reducing serum HBV DNA to low or undetectable levels and to ultimately reduce or prevent the development of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma.

The HBV capsid protein plays essential functions during the viral life cycle. HBV capsid/core proteins form metastable viral particles or protein shells that protect the viral genome during intercellular passage, and also play a central role in viral replication processes, including genome encapsidation, genome replication, and virion morphogenesis and egress. Capsid structures also respond to

environmental cues to allow un-coating after viral entry. Consistently, the appropriate timing of capsid assembly and dis-assembly, the appropriate capsid stability and the function of core protein have been found to be critical for viral infectivity.

The crucial function of HBV capsid proteins imposes stringent evolutionary constraints on the viral capsid protein sequence, leading to the observed low sequence variability and high conservation. Consistently, mutations in HBV capsid that disrupt its assembly are lethal, and mutations that perturb capsid stability severely attenuate viral replication. The high functional constraints on the multi functional HBV core/capsid protein is consistent with a high sequence conservation, as many mutations are deleterious to function. Indeed, the core/capsid protein sequences are >90% identical across HBV genotypes and show only a small number of polymorphic residues. Resistance selection to HBV core/capsid protein binding compounds may therefore be difficult to select without large impacts on virus replication fitness.

Reports describing compounds that bind viral capsids and inhibit replication of HIV, rhinovirus and HBV provide strong pharmacological proof of concept for viral capsid proteins as antiviral drug targets.

There is a need in the art for therapeutic agents that can increase the suppression of virus production and that can treat, ameliorate, and/or prevent HBV infection. Administration of such therapeutic agents to an HBV infected patient, either as monotherapy or in combination with other HBV treatments or ancillary treatments, will improve the likelihood of reduced virus burden, improved prognosis, diminished progression of the disease and enhanced seroconversion rates.

In view of the clinical impact of HBV on infected patients, the need to identify compounds that can increase the suppression of virus production and that can treat, ameliorate, and/or prevent HBV infection represents an attractive avenue for the development of new therapeutic agents. Such compounds are provided herein.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure is directed to the general and preferred embodiments defined, respectively, by the independent and dependent claims appended hereto, which are incorporated by reference herein.

In particular, the present disclosure is directed to compounds of Formula (I):

and pharmaceutically acceptable salts, stereoisomers, isotopic variants, N-oxides, or solvates of compounds of Formula (I).

In embodiments, each of R ¹ , R ² , R ³ and R ⁴ are independently hydrogen or Ci-4alkyl.

Het represents a five- or six-membered heteroaryl ring. In embodiments, the five- or six- membered heteroaryl ring is athiazole, pyrimidine or pyrazole. The heteroaryl ring may be optionally substituted with at least one R ⁷ . Each R ⁷ may independently be halo, Ci-4alkyl, Ci-4alkyl substituted with hydroxyl (OH) or Ci-4haloalkyl.

In embodiments, each of X ¹ and X ² are independently oxygen (O) or nitrogen (N). In embodiments, when X ¹ is O, X ² is N. In embodiments, when X ¹ is N, X ² is O.

In embodiments, each of X ³ and X ⁴ are independently C-R ⁶ or nitrogen. In embodiments, when X ³ is C-R ⁶ or nitrogen, X ⁴ is C-R ⁶ . In embodiments, when X ⁴ is C-R ⁶ or nitrogen, X ³ is C-R ⁶ . Each R ⁶ may independently be hydrogen, halo, Ci-4haloalkyl or cyano (CN).

There are none, one or two R ⁵ substituents— n is 0, 1 or 2. Each R ⁵ may independently be hydrogen, halo, Ci-4haloalkyl or cyano (CN).

Further embodiments include pharmaceutically acceptable salts of compounds of Formula (I), pharmaceutically acceptable prodrugs of compounds of Formula (I), pharmaceutically active metabolites of compounds of Formula (I), and enantiomers and diastereomers of the compounds of Formula (I), as well as pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof.

In embodiments, the compounds of Formula (I) are compounds selected from those species described or exemplified in the detailed description below.

The present disclosure is also directed to pharmaceutical compositions comprising one or more compounds of Formula (I), pharmaceutically acceptable salts of compounds of Formula (I), pharmaceutically acceptable prodrugs of compounds of Formula (I), and pharmaceutically active metabolites of Formula (I). Pharmaceutical compositions may further comprise one or more pharmaceutically acceptable excipients or one or more other agents or therapeutics.

The present disclosure is also directed to methods of using or uses of compounds of Formula (I). In embodiments, compounds of Formula (I) are used to treat or ameliorate hepatitis B viral (HBV) infection, increase the suppression of HBV production, interfere with HBV capsid assembly or other

HBV viral replication steps or products thereof. The methods comprise administering to a subject in need of such method an effective amount of at least one compound of Formula (I), pharmaceutically acceptable salts of compounds of Formula (I), pharmaceutically acceptable prodrugs of compounds of Formula (I), and pharmaceutically active metabolites of compounds of Formula (I). Additional embodiments of methods of treatment are set forth in the detailed description.

The present disclosure is also directed to compounds of Formula (X):

In embodiments, each of R ¹ , R ² , R ³ and R ⁴ are independently hydrogen or Ci-4alkyl.

Het represents a five- or six-membered heteroaryl ring. In embodiments, the five- or six- membered heteroaryl ring is a thiazole, pyrimidine or pyrazole. The heteroaryl ring may be optionally substituted with at least one R ⁷ . Each R ⁷ may independently be halo, Ci-4alkyl, Ci-4alkyl substituted with hydroxyl (OH) or Ci-4haloalkyl.

In embodiments, each of X ¹ and X ² are independently oxygen (O) or nitrogen (N). In embodiments, when X ¹ is O, X ² is N. In embodiments, when X ¹ is N, X ² is O.

The present disclosure is also directed to processes or methods of preparing compounds of

Formula (I), comprising combining a compound of Formula (X) and a compound of Formula (XI) in the presence of base and solvent.

In embodiments, each of R ¹ , R ² , R ³ and R ⁴ are independently hydrogen or Ci-4alkyl.

Het represents a five- or six-membered heteroaryl ring. In embodiments, the five- or six- membered heteroaryl ring is athiazole, pyrimidine or pyrazole. The heteroaryl ring may be optionally substituted with at least one R ⁷ . Each R ⁷ may independently be halo, Ci-4alkyl, Ci-4alkyl substituted with hydroxyl (OH) or Ci-4haloalkyl.

In embodiments, each of X ¹ and X ² are independently oxygen (O) or nitrogen (N). In embodiments, when X ¹ is O, X ² is N. In embodiments, when X ¹ is N, X ² is O.

In embodiments, each of X ³ and X ⁴ are independently C-R ⁶ or nitrogen. In embodiments, when X ³ is C-R ⁶ or nitrogen, X ⁴ is C-R ⁶ . In embodiments, when X ⁴ is C-R ⁶ or nitrogen, X ³ is C-R ⁶ . Each R ⁶ may independently be hydrogen, halo, Ci-4haloalkyl or cyano (CN).

There are none, one or two R ⁵ substituents— n is 0, 1 or 2. Each R ⁵ may independently be hydrogen, halo, Ci-4haloalkyl or cyano (CN).

In embodiments, the base is an alkyl amine such as triethylamine (TEA), di-isopropylethylamine (DIEA)and the like .

In embodiments, the solvent is a halo-alkane such as dichloromethane (DCM), dichloroethane (DCE)and the like.

An object of the present disclosure is to overcome or ameliorate at least one of the disadvantages of the conventional methodologies and/or prior art, or to provide a useful alternative thereto. Additional embodiments, features, and advantages of the present disclosure will be apparent from the following detailed description and through practice of the disclosed subject matter. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Additional embodiments, features, and advantages of the subject matter of the present disclosure will be apparent from the following detailed description of such disclosure and through its practice. For the sake of brevity, the publications, including patents, cited in this specification are herein incorporated by reference.

Provided herein are compounds of Formula (I), including compounds of Formulae (IA) and (IB), and their pharmaceutically acceptable salts, pharmaceutically acceptable prodrugs, and pharmaceutically active metabolites of the disclosed compounds.

In one aspect, provided herein are compounds of Formula (I), and pharmaceutically acceptable salts, stereoisomers, isotopic variants, N-oxides, or solvates thereof,

wherein

R ¹ , R ² , R ³ , and R ⁴ are each independently H or Ci-4alkyl;

Het is a five or six membered heteroaryl ring selected from the group consisting of: thiazole, pyrimidine, and pyrazole, wherein each thiazole, pyrimidine, and pyrazole is optionally substituted with at least one R ⁷ ;

X ¹ and X ² are each independently O or N;

wherein when X ¹ is O, X ² is N; wherein when X ¹ is N, X ² is O;

X ³ and X ⁴ are each independently C-R ⁶ or N;

wherein when X ³ is C-R ⁶ or N, X ⁴ is C-R ⁶ ; wherein when X ⁴ is C-R ⁶ or N, X ³ is C-R ⁶ ;

R ⁵ and R ⁶ are each independently selected from the group consisting of: H, halo, Ci-dialoalkyl, and CN;

n is 0, 1 or 2; and R ⁷ is selected from the group consisting of: halo, Ci-4alkyl, Ci-4alkyl substituted with OH, and Ci- 4haloalkyl;

and pharmaceutically acceptable salts, solvates, stereoisomers, isotopic variants, or N-oxides of compounds of Formula (I).

In embodiments, the compound of Formula (I) is a compound wherein R ¹ is H.

In embodiments, the compound of Formula (I) is a compound wherein R ¹ is C¾

In embodiments, the compound of Formula (I) is a compound wherein R ¹ and R ² are each G¾.

In embodiments, the compound of Formula (I) is a compound wherein R ⁴ is H.

In embodiments, the compound of Formula (I) is a compound wherein R ⁴ is G¾.

In embodiments, the compound of Formula (I) is a compound wherein Het is

In embodiments, the compound of Formula (I) is a compound wherein Het is

^ NH

In embodiments, the compound of Formula (I) is a compound wherein Het is N

In embodiments, the compound of Formula (I) is a compound wherein X ³ is C-R ⁶ and R ⁶ is H.

In embodiments, the compound of Formula (I) is a compound wherein X ³ is N.

In embodiments, the compound of Formula (I) is a compound wherein X ⁴ is C-R ⁶ , and R ⁶ is halo.

In embodiments, the compound of Formula (I) is a compound wherein X ⁴ is C-R ⁶ , and R ⁶ is F.

In embodiments, the compound of Formula (I) is a compound wherein X ⁴ is N.

In embodiments, the compound of Formula (I) is a compound wherein R ⁵ is selected from halo, Ci-z _t haloalkyl, and CN.

In embodiments, the compound of Formula (I) is a compound wherein at least one of R ⁵ is fluorine.

In embodiments, the compound of Formula (I) is a compound wherein n is 0.

In embodiments, the compound of Formula (I) is a compound wherein n is 1.

In embodiments, the compound of Formula (I) is a compound wherein n is 2. In embodiments, the compound of Formula (I) is a compound wherein R ⁷ is H, F, CF2H (or

CHF ₂ .

In embodiments, the compound of Formula (I) is a compound wherein X ¹ is O, X ² is N.

In embodiments, the compound of Formula (I) is a compound wherein X ¹ is N, X ² is O.

An embodiment of the present disclosure is a compound of Formula (I) having the Formula (IA):

Het

wherein

Het i

R ¹ is H or CH ₃ ;

R ² is H or CH ₃ ;

R ³ is H:

R ⁴ is H or CH ₃ ;

X ³ is C-R ⁶ , wherein R ⁶ is H, Br, F, CF ₂ H (or CHF ₂ , CF ₃ , or CN;

X ⁴ is N or C-R ⁶ , wherein R ⁶ is F;

each R ⁵ is independently selected from the group consisting of: Br, F, CF ₂ H, CF ₃ , and CN;

n is 0, 1 or 2; and

R ⁷ is H;

and pharmaceutically acceptable salts, N-oxides or solvates of compounds of Formula (IA). An embodiment of the of the present disclosure is a compound of Formula (I) having the Formula

(IB):

wherein

Het i

R ¹ is H or CH ₃

R ² is H or CH ₃

R ³ is H;

R ⁴ is H or CH ₃ ;

X ³ is C-R ⁶ , wherein R ⁶ is H, Br, F, CF ₂ H (or CHF ₂ ), CF ₃ , or CN;

X ⁴ is N or C-R ⁶ , wherein R ⁶ is F;

each R ⁵ is independently selected from the group consisting of: Br, F, CF ₂ H, CF ₃ , and CN;

n is 0, 1 or 2; and

R ⁷ is H;

and pharmaceutically acceptable salts, N-oxides or solvates of compounds of Formula (IB).

In embodiments, the compound of Formula (I) is a compound wherein X ¹ is N; X ² is O; R ¹ and R ² are each H; R ⁴ is CH ₃ ; Het is ^ Jl N J ; c ³ and X ⁴ are each C-R ⁶ and each R ⁶ is H; and R ⁵ is selected from halo, Ci-4haloalkyl and CN. In embodiments, the compound of Formula (I) is a compound wherein X ¹ is O; X ² is N; R ¹ and R ² are each H; R ⁴ is G¾; Het is and X ⁴ are each C-R ⁶ and each R ⁶ is H; and R ⁵ is selected from halo, Ci- ₄ haloalkyl and CN.

In embodiments, the compound of Formula (I) is a compound wherein X ¹ is N; X ² is O; R ¹ and R ² are each G¾; R ⁴ is H; Het i ³ and X ⁴ are each C-R ⁶ and each R ⁶ is H; and R ⁵ is selected from halo, Ci-z _t haloalkyl and CN.

In embodiments, the compound of Formula (I) is a compound wherein X ¹ is O; X ² is N; R ¹ and R ²

N^i

JL J

are each G¾; R ⁴ is H; Het is ^ N _: c ³ and X ⁴ are each C-R ⁶ , and each R ⁶ is H; and R ⁵ is selected from halo, Ci- ₄ haloalkyl and CN.

In embodiments, the compound of Formula (I) is a compound wherein X ¹ is N; X ² is O; R ¹ and R ² are each H; R ⁴ is C¾; Het is ^ JL N J _: c ³ and X ⁴ are each C-R ⁶ and each R ⁶ is H; and at least one R ⁵ is F.

In embodiments, the compound of Formula (I) is a compound wherein X ¹ is O; X ² is N; R ¹ and R ²

N^i

are each G¾; R ⁴ is H; Het is JL N J _: c ³ and X ⁴ are each C-R ⁶ , and each R ⁶ is H; and at least one R ⁵ is F.

In embodiments, the compound of Formula (I) is a compound wherein X ¹ is N; X ² is O; R ¹ and R ² are each H; R ⁴ is C¾; Het is ^L N J ; c ⁴ i _s N; and R ⁵ is selected from halo, Ci- ₄ haloalkyl and CN.

In embodiments, the compound of Formula (I) is a compound wherein X ¹ is O; X ² is N; R ¹ and R ² are each H; R ⁴ is C¾; Het is i _s N; and R ⁵ is selected from halo, Ci- ₄ haloalkyl and CN.

In embodiments, the compound of Formula (I) is a compound wherein X ¹ is N; X ² is O; R ¹ and R ² are each H; R ⁴ is C¾; Het is ^ JL N J _: c ⁴ i _s C-R ⁶ , wherein R ⁶ is F; and R ⁵ is selected from halo, Ci- z _t haloalkyl and CN.

In embodiments, the compound of Formula (I) is a compound wherein X ¹ is O; X ² is N; R ¹ and R ² are each CH ₃ ; R ⁴ is H; Het is JL N J ; X ⁴ i _s C-R ⁶ , wherein R ⁶ is F; and R ⁵ is selected from halo, Ci- zihaloalkyl and CN.

In embodiments, the compound of Formula (I) is a compound wherein X ¹ is N; X ² is O; R ¹ and R ²

N^i

are each CH ₃ ; R ⁴ is H; Het is ^ JL N J ; c ⁴ i _s N; and R ⁵ is selected from halo, Ci-z _t haloalkyl and CN.

In embodiments, the compound of Formula (I) is a compound wherein X ¹ is O; X ² is N; R ¹ and R ²

N^i

are each H; R ⁴ is C¾; Het is ^ JL N J _: c ⁴ i _s N; and R ⁵ is selected from halo, Ci-z _t haloalkyl and CN.

In embodiments, the compound of Formula (I) is a compound wherein X ¹ is N; X ² is O; R ¹ and R ²

N^i

are each G¾; R ⁴ is H; Het is JL N J _: c ⁴ i _s C-R ⁶ , wherein R ⁶ is F; and R ⁵ is selected from halo, Ci- z _t haloalkyl and CN.

In embodiments, the compound of Formula (I) is a compound wherein X ¹ is O; X ² is N; R ¹ and R ²

N^i

are each G¾; R ⁴ is H; Het is ^ JL N J _: c ⁴ i _s C-R ⁶ , wherein R ⁶ is F; and R ⁵ is selected from halo, Ci- z _t haloalkyl and CN.

In an embodiment, the compound of Formula (I) is a compound wherein

X ¹ is N; X ² is O; and Het i , wherein R ⁷ is H.

In an embodiment, the compound of Formula (I) is a compound wherein

X ¹ is N; X ² is O; Het , wherein R ⁷ is H; R ¹ , R ² and R ³ are each H; and R ⁴ is CH ₃ . In an embodiment, the compound of Formula (I) is a compound wherein X ¹ is N; X ² is O; Het is p 7

X A NA wherein R ⁷ is H: R ¹ , R ² and R ³ are each H: R ⁴ is Q¾; X ³ is C-R ⁶ , wherein R ⁶ is selected from the group consisting of H, CF ₃ and CN; X ⁴ is C-R ⁶ , wherein R ⁶ is F; n is 0 or 1; and R ⁵ is CF ₃ or CN.

In an embodiment, the compound of Formula (I) is a compound wherein X ¹ is N; X ² is O; Het is N ^R7

N . wherein R ⁷ is H; R ¹ , R ² and R ³ are each H; R ⁴ is Q¾; X ³ is C-R ⁶ , wherein R ⁶ is selected from the group consisting of H, CF2H and Br; X ⁴ is N; n is 1 or 2; and each R ⁵ is independently selected from the group consisting of: F, CF2H and Br.

In an embodiment, the compound of Formula (I) is a compound wherein X ¹ is O; X ² is N; and

Het i wherein R ⁷ is H.

In an embodiment, the compound of Formula (I) is a compound wherein X ¹ is O; X ² is N; T

Het is X A.. » , wherein R ⁷ is H; R ¹ , R ² and R ³ are each H; and R ⁴ is CH ₃ .

In an embodiment, the compound of Formula (I) is a compound wherein X ¹ is O; X ² is N;

Het is wherein R ⁷ is H: R ¹ , R ² and R ³ are each H: R ⁴ is C¾ X ³ is C-R ⁶ , wherein R ⁶ is selected from the group consisting of H, CF ₃ and CN; X ⁴ is C-R ⁶ , wherein R ⁶ is F; n is 0 or 1; and R ⁵ is

CF ₃ or CN.

In an embodiment, the compound of Formula (I) is a compound wherein X is O; X is N; Het i . wherein R ⁷ is H; R ¹ , R ² and R ³ are each H; R ⁴ is CH _; X ³ is C-R ⁶ , wherein R ⁶ is selected from the group consisting of H, CF H and Br; X ⁴ is N; n is 1 or 2; and each R ⁵ is independently selected from the group consisting of: F, CF H and Br.

A further embodiment of the present disclosure is a compound as shown below in Table 1. Table 1.

and pharmaceutically acceptable salts, N-oxides, or solvates thereof.

Pharmaceutical Compositions

Also disclosed herein are pharmaceutical compositions comprising

(A) at least one compound of Formula (I):

wherein

R ¹ , R ² , R ³ , and R ⁴ are each independently H or (Aralkyl;

Het is a five or six membered heteroaryl ring selected from the group consisting of: thiazole, pyrimidine, and pyrazole, wherein each thiazole, pyrimidine, and pyrazole is optionally substituted with at least one R ⁷ ;

X ¹ and X ² are each independently O or N;

wherein when X ¹ is O, X ² is N; wherein when X ¹ is N, X ² is O;

X ³ and X ⁴ are each independently C-R ⁶ or N;

wherein when X ³ is C-R ⁶ or N, X ⁴ is C-R ⁶ ; wherein when X ⁴ is C-R ⁶ or N, X ³ is C-R ⁶ ;

R ⁵ and R ⁶ are each independently selected from the group consisting of: H, halo, Ci- z _t haloalkyl, and CN;

n is 0, 1 or 2; and R ⁷ is selected from the group consisting of: halo, Ci-4alkyl, Ci-4alkyl substituted with OH, and Ci-4haloalkyl; and

pharmaceutically acceptable salts, stereoisomers, isotopic variants, N-oxides or solvates of compounds of Formula (I); and

(B) at least one pharmaceutically acceptable excipient.

An embodiment of the present disclosure is a pharmaceutical composition comprising at least one pharmaceutically acceptable excipient and at least one compound listed in Table 1, as well as any pharmaceutically acceptable salt, N-oxide or solvate of such compound, or any pharmaceutically acceptable prodrugs of such compound, or any pharmaceutically active metabolite of such compound.

In embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition comprises at least one additional active or therapeutic agent. Additional active therapeutic agents may include, for example, an anti-HBV agent such as an HBV polymerase inhibitor, interferon, viral entry inhibitor, viral maturation inhibitor, capsid assembly modulator, reverse transcriptase inhibitor, immunomodulatory agent such as a TLR-agonist, or any other agents that affects the HBV life cycle and/or the consequences of HBV infection. The active agents of the present disclosure are used, alone or in combination with one or more additional active agents, to formulate pharmaceutical compositions of the present disclosure.

As used herein, the term“composition” or“pharmaceutical composition” refers to a mixture of at least one compound useful within the present disclosure with a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. The pharmaceutical composition facilitates administration of the compound to a patient or subject. Multiple techniques of administering a compound exist in the art including, but not limited to, intravenous, oral, aerosol, parenteral, ophthalmic, pulmonary and topical administration.

As used herein, the term“pharmaceutically acceptable carrier” means a pharmaceutically acceptable material, composition or carrier, such as a liquid or solid filler, stabilizer, dispersing agent, suspending agent, diluent, excipient, thickening agent, solvent or encapsulating material, involved in carrying or transporting a compound useful within the present disclosure within or to the patient such that it may perform its intended function. Typically, such constructs are carried or transported from one organ, or portion of the body, to another organ, or portion of the body. Each carrier must be“acceptable” in the sense of being compatible with the other ingredients of the formulation, including the compound useful within the present disclosure, and not injurious to the patient. Some examples of materials that may serve as pharmaceutically acceptable carriers include: sugars, such as lactose, glucose and sucrose; starches, such as com starch and potato starch; cellulose, and its derivatives, such as sodium

carboxymethyl cellulose, ethyl cellulose and cellulose acetate; powdered tragacanth; malt; gelatin; talc; excipients, such as cocoa butter and suppository waxes; oils, such as peanut oil, cottonseed oil, safflower oil, sesame oil, olive oil, com oil and soybean oil; glycols, such as propylene glycol; polyols, such as glycerin, sorbitol, mannitol and polyethylene glycol; esters, such as ethyl oleate and ethyl laurate; agar; buffering agents, such as magnesium hydroxide and aluminum hydroxide; surface active agents; alginic acid; pyrogen-free water; isotonic saline; Ringer’s solution; ethyl alcohol; phosphate buffer solutions; and other non-toxic compatible substances employed in pharmaceutical formulations.

As used herein,“pharmaceutically acceptable carrier” also includes any and all coatings, antibacterial and antifungal agents, and absorption delaying agents, and the like that are compatible with the activity of the compound useful within the present disclosure, and are physiologically acceptable to the patient. Supplementary active compounds may also be incorporated into the compositions. The “pharmaceutically acceptable carrier” may further include a pharmaceutically acceptable salt of the compound useful within the present disclosure. Other additional ingredients that may be included in the pharmaceutical compositions used in the practice of the present disclosure are known in the art and described, for example in Remington's Pharmaceutical Sciences (Genaro, Ed., Mack Publishing Co.,

1985, Easton, PA), which is incorporated herein by reference.

A "pharmaceutically acceptable excipient" refers to a substance that is non-toxic, biologically tolerable, and otherwise biologically suitable for administration to a subject, such as an inert substance, added to a pharmacological composition or otherwise used as a vehicle, carrier, or diluent to facilitate administration of an agent and that is compatible therewith. Examples of excipients include calcium carbonate, calcium phosphate, various sugars and types of starch, cellulose derivatives, gelatin, vegetable oils, and polyethylene glycols.

Delivery forms of the pharmaceutical compositions containing one or more dosage units of the active agents may be prepared using suitable pharmaceutical excipients and compounding techniques known or that become available to those skilled in the art. The compositions may be administered in the inventive methods by a suitable route of delivery, e.g., oral, parenteral, rectal, topical, or ocular routes, or by inhalation.

The preparation may be in the form of tablets, capsules, sachets, dragees, powders, granules, lozenges, powders for reconstitution, liquid preparations, or suppositories. Preferably, the compositions are formulated for intravenous infusion, topical administration, or oral administration.

For oral administration, the compounds of the present disclosure can be provided in the form of tablets or capsules, or as a solution, emulsion, or suspension. To prepare the oral compositions, the compounds may be formulated to yield a dosage of, e.g., from about 0.05 to about 100 mg/kg daily, or from about 0.05 to about 35 mg/kg daily, or from about 0.1 to about 10 mg/kg daily. For example, a total daily dosage of about 5 mg to 5 g daily may be accomplished by dosing once, twice, three, or four times per day.

Oral tablets may include a compound according to the present disclosure mixed with

pharmaceutically acceptable excipients such as inert diluents, disintegrating agents, binding agents, lubricating agents, sweetening agents, flavoring agents, coloring agents and preservative agents. Suitable inert fillers include sodium and calcium carbonate, sodium and calcium phosphate, lactose, starch, sugar, glucose, methyl cellulose, magnesium stearate, mannitol, sorbitol, and the like. Exemplary liquid oral excipients include ethanol, glycerol, water, and the like. Starch, polyvinyl -pyrrolidone (PVP), sodium starch glycolate, microcrystalline cellulose, and alginic acid are suitable disintegrating agents. Binding agents may include starch and gelatin. The lubricating agent, if present, may be magnesium stearate, stearic acid or talc. If desired, the tablets may be coated with a material such as glyceryl monostearate or glyceryl distearate to delay absorption in the gastrointestinal tract, or may be coated with an enteric coating.

Capsules for oral administration include hard and soft gelatin capsules. To prepare hard gelatin capsules, compounds of the present disclosure may be mixed with a solid, semi-solid, or liquid diluent. Soft gelatin capsules may be prepared by mixing the compound of the present disclosure with water, an oil such as peanut oil or olive oil, liquid paraffin, a mixture of mono and di-glycerides of short chain fatty acids, polyethylene glycol 400, or propylene glycol.

Liquids for oral administration may be in the form of suspensions, solutions, emulsions or syrups or may be lyophilized or presented as a dry product for reconstitution with water or other suitable vehicle before use. Such liquid compositions may optionally contain: pharmaceutically-acceptable excipients such as suspending agents (for example, sorbitol, methyl cellulose, sodium alginate, gelatin,

hydroxyethylcellulose, carboxymethylcellulose, aluminum stearate gel and the like); non-aqueous vehicles, e.g., oil (for example, almond oil or fractionated coconut oil), propylene glycol, ethyl alcohol, or water; preservatives (for example, methyl or propyl p-hydroxybenzoate or sorbic acid); wetting agents such as lecithin; and, if desired, flavoring or coloring agents.

The active agents of this present disclosure may also be administered by non-oral routes. For example, the compositions may be formulated for rectal administration as a suppository. For parenteral use, including intravenous, intramuscular, intraperitoneal, or subcutaneous routes, the compounds of the present disclosure may be provided in sterile aqueous solutions or suspensions, buffered to an appropriate pH and isotonicity or in parenterally acceptable oil. Suitable aqueous vehicles include Ringer's solution and isotonic sodium chloride. Such forms will be presented in unit-dose form such as ampules or disposable injection devices, in multi-dose forms such as vials from which the appropriate dose may be withdrawn, or in a solid form or pre -concentrate that can be used to prepare an injectable formulation. Illustrative infusion doses may range from about 1 to 1000 pg/kg/minute of compound, admixed with a pharmaceutical carrier over a period ranging from several minutes to several days.

For topical administration, the compounds may be mixed with a pharmaceutical carrier at a concentration of about 0.1% to about 10% of drug to vehicle. Another mode of administering the compounds of the present disclosure may utilize a patch formulation to affect transdermal delivery.

Compounds of the present disclosure may alternatively be administered in methods of this present disclosure by inhalation, via the nasal or oral routes, e.g., in a spray formulation also containing a suitable carrier.

Methods of Use

The disclosed compounds are useful in the treatment and prevention of HBV infection in a subject such as a human subject.

In a non-limiting aspect, these compounds may (i) modulate or disrupt HBV assembly and other HBV core protein functions necessary for HBV replication or the generation of infectious particles, (ii) inhibit the production of infectious virus particles or infection, or (iii) interact with HBV capsid to effect defective viral particles with reduced infectivity or replication capacity acting as capsid assembly modulators. In particular, and without being bound to any particular mechanism of action, it is believed that the disclosed compounds are useful in HBV treatment by disrupting, accelerating, reducing, delaying and/or inhibiting normal viral capsid assembly and/or disassembly of immature or mature particles, thereby inducing aberrant capsid morphology leading to antiviral effects such as disruption of virion assembly and/or disassembly, virion maturation, virus egress and/or infection of target cells. The disclosed compounds may act as a disruptor of capsid assembly interacting with mature or immature viral capsid to perturb the stability of the capsid, thus affecting its assembly and/or disassembly. The disclosed compounds may perturb protein folding and/or salt bridges required for stability, function and/or normal morphology of the viral capsid, thereby disrupting and/or accelerating capsid assembly and/or disassembly. The disclosed compounds may bind capsid and alter metabolism of cellular polyproteins and precursors, leading to abnormal accumulation of protein monomers and/or oligomers and/or abnormal particles, which causes cellular toxicity and death of infected cells. The disclosed compounds may cause failure of the formation of capsids of optimal stability, affecting efficient uncoating and/or disassembly of viruses (e.g., during infectivity). The disclosed compounds may disrupt and/or accelerate capsid assembly and/or disassembly when the capsid protein is immature. The disclosed compounds may disrupt and/or accelerate capsid assembly and/or disassembly when the capsid protein is mature. The disclosed compounds may disrupt and/or accelerate capsid assembly and/or disassembly during viral infectivity which may further attenuate HBV viral infectivity and/or reduce viral load. The disruption, acceleration, inhibition, delay and/or reduction of capsid assembly and/or disassembly by the disclosed compounds may eradicate the virus from the host organism. Eradication of HBV from a subject by the disclosed compounds advantageously obviates the need for chronic long-term therapy and/or reduces the duration of long-term therapy.

The present disclosure is directed to compounds of Formula (I) for use in the treatment of an HBV infection.

The present disclosure is directed to compounds of Formula (I) for use as a medicament for the treatment of an HBV infection.

The present disclosure is directed to the use of compounds of Formula (I) for the treatment of an HBV infection.

An additional embodiment of the present disclosure is a method of treating a subject suffering from an HBV infection, comprising administering to a subject in need of such treatment an effective amount of at least one compound of Formula (I).

The present disclosure is directed to compounds of Formula (I) for use in reducing the viral load associated with an HBV infection.

The present disclosure is directed to compounds of Formula (I) for use as a medicament for reducing the viral load associated with an HBV infection.

The present disclosure is directed to the use of compounds of Formula (I) for reducing the viral load associated with an HBV infection.

In another aspect, provided herein is a method of reducing the viral load associated with an HBV infection in an individual in need thereof, comprising administering to the individual a therapeutically effective amount of a compound of Formula (I), or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.

The present disclosure is directed to compounds of Formula (I) for use in reducing reoccurrence of an HBV infection.

The present disclosure is directed to compounds of Formula (I) for use as a medicament for reducing reoccurrence of an HBV infection.

The present disclosure is directed to the use of compounds of Formula (I) for reducing reoccurrence of an HBV infection. In another aspect, provided herein is a method of reducing reoccurrence of an HBV infection in an individual in need thereof, comprising administering to the individual a therapeutically effective amount of a compound of Formula (I), or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.

The present disclosure is directed to compounds of Formula (I) for use in inhibiting or reducing the formation or presence of HBV DNA-containing particles or HBV RNA-containing particles.

The present disclosure is directed to compounds of Formula (I) for use as a medicament for inhibiting or reducing the formation or presence of HBV DNA-containing particles or HBV RNA- containing particles.

The present disclosure is directed to the use of compounds of Formula (I) for inhibiting or reducing the formation or presence of HBV DNA-containing particles or HBV RNA-containing particles.

In another aspect, provided herein is a method of inhibiting or reducing the formation or presence of HBV DNA-containing particles or HBV RNA-containing particles in an individual in need thereof, comprising administering to the individual a therapeutically effective amount of a compound of Formula (I), or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.

In another aspect, provided herein is a method of reducing an adverse physiological impact of an HBV infection in an individual in need thereof, comprising administering to the individual a

therapeutically effective amount of a compound of Formula (I), or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.

In another aspect, provided herein is a method of inducing remission of hepatic injury from an HBV infection in an individual in need thereof, comprising administering to the individual a

therapeutically effective amount of a compound of Formula (I), or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.

In another aspect, provided herein is a method of reducing the physiological impact of long-term antiviral therapy for HBV infection in an individual in need thereof, comprising administering to the individual a therapeutically effective amount of a compound of Formula (I), or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.

In another aspect, provided herein is a method of prophylactically treating an HBV infection in an individual in need thereof, wherein the individual is afflicted with a latent HBV infection, comprising administering to the individual a therapeutically effective amount of a compound of Formula (I), or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.

In embodiments, the disclosed compounds are suitable for monotherapy. In embodiments, the disclosed compounds are effective against natural or native HBV strains. In embodiments, the disclosed compounds are effective against HBV strains resistant to currently known drugs.

In another embodiment, the compounds provided herein can be used in methods of modulating (e.g., inhibiting or disrupting) the activity, stability, function, and viral replication properties of HBV cccDNA.

In yet another embodiment, the compounds of the present disclosure can be used in methods of diminishing or preventing the formation of HBV cccDNA.

In another embodiment, the compounds provided herein can be used in methods of modulating (e.g., inhibiting or disrupting) the activity of HBV cccDNA.

In yet another embodiment, the compounds of the present disclosure can be used in methods of diminishing the formation of HBV cccDNA.

In another embodiment, the disclosed compounds can be used in methods of modulating, inhibiting, or disrupting the generation or release of HBV RNA particles from within the infected cell.

In a further embodiment, the total burden (or concentration) of HBV RNA particles is modulated. In a preferred embodiment, the total burden of HBV RNA is diminished.

In another embodiment, the methods provided herein reduce the viral load in the individual to a greater extent or at a faster rate compared to the administering of a compound selected from the group consisting of an HBV polymerase inhibitor, interferon, viral entry inhibitor, viral maturation inhibitor, distinct capsid assembly modulator, antiviral compounds of distinct or unknown mechanism, and any combination thereof.

In another embodiment, the methods provided herein cause a lower incidence of viral mutation and/or viral resistance than the administering of a compound selected from the group consisting of an HBV polymerase inhibitor, interferon, viral entry inhibitor, viral maturation inhibitor, distinct capsid assembly modulator, antiviral compounds of distinct or unknown mechanism, and combination thereof.

In another embodiment, the methods provided herein further comprise administering to the individual at least one HBV vaccine, a nucleoside HBV inhibitor, an interferon or any combination thereof.

In an aspect, provided herein is a method of treating an HBV infection in an individual in need thereof, comprising reducing the HBV viral load by administering to the individual a therapeutically effective amount of a compound of Formula (I) (as well as Formula (IA) or Formula (IB)), or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, alone or in combination with a reverse transcriptase inhibitor; and further administering to the individual a therapeutically effective amount of HBV vaccine.

An additional embodiment of the present disclosure is a method of treating a subject suffering from an HBV infection, comprising administering to a subject in need of such treatment an effective amount of at least one compound of Formula (I).

In another aspect, provided herein is a method of reducing the viral load associated with an HBV infection in an individual in need thereof, comprising administering to the individual a therapeutically effective amount of a compound of Formula (I), or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.

In another aspect, provided herein is a method of reducing reoccurrence of an HBV infection in an individual in need thereof, comprising administering to the individual a therapeutically effective amount of a compound of Formula (I), or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.

In another aspect, provided herein is a method of inhibiting or reducing the formation or presence of HBV DNA-containing particles or HBV RNA-containing particles in an individual in need thereof, comprising administering to the individual a therapeutically effective amount of a compound of Formula (I), or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.

In another aspect, provided herein is a method of reducing an adverse physiological impact of an HBV infection in an individual in need thereof, comprising administering to the individual a

therapeutically effective amount of a compound of Formula (I), or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.

In another aspect, provided herein is a method of inducing remission of hepatic injury from an HBV infection in an individual in need thereof, comprising administering to the individual a

therapeutically effective amount of a compound of Formula (I), or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.

In another aspect, provided herein is a method of reducing the physiological impact of long-term antiviral therapy for HBV infection in an individual in need thereof, comprising administering to the individual a therapeutically effective amount of a compound of Formula (I), or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.

In another aspect, provided herein is a method of prophylactically treating an HBV infection in an individual in need thereof, wherein the individual is afflicted with a latent HBV infection, comprising administering to the individual a therapeutically effective amount of a compound of Formula (I), or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. In an embodiment, the methods provided herein further comprise monitoring the HBV viral load of the subject, wherein the method is carried out for a period of time such that the HBV virus is undetectable.

Combinations

Provided herein are combinations of one or more of the disclosed compounds with at least one additional therapeutic agent. In embodiments, the methods provided herein can further comprise administering to the individual at least one additional therapeutic agent. In embodiments, the disclosed compounds are suitable for use in combination therapy. The compounds of the present disclosure may be useful in combination with one or more additional compounds useful for treating HBV infection or an HBV-associated or -induced disease, or a liver disease. These additional compounds may comprise compounds of the present disclosure or compounds known to treat, prevent, or reduce the symptoms or effects of HBV infection or of an HBV-associated or -induced disease, or of a liver disease.

In an aspect, a product is provided comprising a first compound and a second compound as a combined preparation for simultaneous, separate or sequential use in the prevention or treatment of an HBV infection or of an HBV-induced disease in mammal in need thereof, wherein said first compound is different from said second compound, wherein said first compound is the compound or pharmaceutically acceptable salt of the application or the pharmaceutical composition of the application, and wherein said second compound is another HBV inhibitor.

In an exemplary embodiment, additional active ingredients are those that are known or discovered to be effective in the treatment of conditions or disorders involved in HBV infection, such as another HBV capsid assembly modulator or a compound active against another target associated with the particular condition or disorder involved in HBV infection, or the HBV infection itself. The combination may serve to increase efficacy (e.g., by including in the combination a compound potentiating the potency or effectiveness of an active agent according to the present disclosure), decrease one or more side effects, or decrease the required dose of the active agent according to the present disclosure. In a further embodiment, the methods provided herein allow for administering of the at least one additional therapeutic agent at a lower dose or frequency as compared to the administering of the at least one additional therapeutic agent alone that is required to achieve similar results in prophylactically treating an HBV infection in an individual in need thereof.

Additional active ingredients may include those that are inhibitors of HBV. HBV inhibitors may be selected from the group consisting of HBV combination drugs, HBV DNA polymerase inhibitors, reverse transcriptase inhibitors, immunomodulators such as toll-like (TLR) receptor modulators, interferons, such as pegylated interferons and interferon alpha receptor ligands, hyaluronidase inhibitors, hepatitis b surface antigen (HbsAg) inhibitors, cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (ipi4) inhibitors, cyclophilin inhibitors, TNF inhibitors, HBV viral entry inhibitors, antisense oligonucleotide targeting viral mRNA, short interfering RNAs (siRNA) and ddRNAi endonuclease modulators, ribonucleotide reductase inhibitors, HBV E antigen inhibitors, covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) inhibitors, famsoid X receptor agonists, HBV antibodies, CCR2 chemokine antagonists, thymosin agonists, cytokines, nuceloprotein modulators, retinoic acid-inducible gene 1 stimulators, NOD2 stimulators, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (P13K) inhibitors, indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) pathway inhibitors, PD-l inhibitors, PD-L1 inhibitors, recombinant thymosin alpha- 1, bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitors, KDM inhibitors, HBV replication inhibitors, arginase inhibitors, and (other) anti-HBV drugs, HBV vaccine and any other agent that affects the HBV life cycle and/or affect the consequences of HBV infection or combinations thereof.

Additional active ingredients may include HBV reverse transcriptase inhibitors, and DNA and RNA polymerase inhibitors, including but not limited to: lamivudine (3TC, Zeffix, Heptovir, Epivir, and Epivir-HBV), entecavir (Baraclude, Entavir), adefovir dipivoxil (Hepsara, Preveon, bis-POM PMEA), tenofovir disoproxil fiimarate (Viread, TDF or PMPA); interferons, including but not limited to interferon alpha (IFN-a), interferon beta (IFN-b), interferon lambda (IFN-l), and interferon gamma (IFN-g); viral entry inhibitors; viral maturation inhibitors; literature-described capsid assembly modulators, such as, but not limited to BAY 41-4109; reverse transcriptase inhibitor; an immunomodulatory agent such as a TLR- agonist; and agents of distinct or unknown mechanism, such as but not limited to AT-61 ((E)-N-(l- chloro-3-oxo- 1 -phenyl-3 -(piperidin- 1 -yl)prop- 1 -en-2-yl)benzamide), AT- 130 ((E)-N-( 1 -bromo- 1 -(2- methoxyphenyl)-3-oxo-3-(piperidin-l-yl)prop-l-en-2-yl)-4-nit robenzamide), and similar analogs.

In embodiments, the additional therapeutic agent is an interferon. The term“interferon” or“IFN” refers to any member the family of highly homologous species-specific proteins that inhibit viral replication and cellular proliferation and modulate immune response. Human interferons are grouped into three classes; Type I, which include interferon-alpha (IFN-a), interferon-beta (IFN-b), and interferon- omega (IFN-co), Type II, which includes interferon-gamma (IFN-g), and Type III, which includes interferon-lambda (IFN-l). Recombinant forms of interferons that have been developed and are commercially available are encompassed by the term“interferon” as used herein. Subtypes of interferons, such as chemically modified or mutated interferons, are also encompassed by the term“interferon” as used herein. Chemically modified interferons include pegylated interferons and glycosylated interferons. Examples of interferons also include, but are not limited to, interferon-alpha-2a, interferon-alpha-2b, interferon-alpha-nl, interferon-beta- la, interferon-beta- lb, interferon-lamda-l, interferon-lamda-2, and interferon-lamda-3. Examples of pegylated interferons include pegylated interferon-alpha-2a and pegylated interferon alpha-2b.

Accordingly, in one embodiment, the compounds of Formula I, II, III, or IV, can be administered in combination with an interferon selected from the group consisting of interferon alpha (IFN-a), interferon beta (IFN-b), interferon lambda (IFN-l), and interferon gamma (IFN-g). In one specific embodiment, the interferon is interferon-alpha-2a, interferon-alpha-2b, or interferon-alpha-nl. In another specific embodiment, the interferon-alpha-2a or interferon-alpha-2b is pegylated. In a preferred embodiment, the interferon-alpha-2a is pegylated interferon-alpha-2a (PEGASYS).

In another embodiment, the additional therapeutic agent is selected from immune modulator or immune stimulator therapies, which includes biological agents belonging to the interferon class.

Further, the additional therapeutic agent may be an agent that disrupts the function of other essential viral protein(s) or host proteins required for HBV replication or persistence.

In another embodiment, the additional therapeutic agent is an antiviral agent that blocks viral entry or maturation or targets the HBV polymerase such as nucleoside or nucleotide or non-nucleos(t)ide polymerase inhibitors. In a further embodiment of the combination therapy, the reverse transcriptase inhibitor and/or DNA and/or RNA polymerase inhibitor is Zidovudine, Didanosine, Zalcitabine, ddA, Stavudine, Famivudine, Abacavir, Emtricitabine, Entecavir, Apricitabine, Atevirapine, ribavirin, acyclovir, famciclovir, valacyclovir, ganciclovir, valganciclovir, Tenofovir, Adefovir, PMPA, cidofovir, Efavirenz, Nevirapine, Delavirdine, or Etravirine.

In an embodiment, the additional therapeutic agent is an immunomodulatory agent that induces a natural, limited immune response leading to induction of immune responses against unrelated viruses. In other words, the immunomodulatory agent can effect maturation of antigen presenting cells, proliferation of T-cells and cytokine release (e.g., IL-12, IL-18, IFN-alpha, -beta, and -gamma and TNF-alpha among others).

In a further embodiment, the additional therapeutic agent is a TLR modulator or a TLR agonist, such as a TLR-7 agonist or TLR-9 agonist. In further embodiment of the combination therapy, the TLR-7 agonist is selected from the group consisting of SM360320 (9-benzyl-8-hydroxy-2-(2-methoxy- ethoxy)adenine) and AZD 8848 (methyl [3-({[3-(6-amino-2-butoxy-8-oxo-7,8-dihydro-9H-purin-9- yl)propyl] [3 -(4-morpholinyl)propy 1] amino } methyl)phenyl] acetate) .

In any of the methods provided herein, the method may further comprise administering to the individual at least one HBV vaccine, a nucleoside HBV inhibitor, an interferon or any combination thereof. In an embodiment, the HBV vaccine is at least one of RECOMBIVAX HB, ENGERIX-B, ELOVAC B, GENEVAC-B, or SHANVAC B.

In another aspect, provided herein is method of treating an HBV infection in an individual in need thereof, comprising reducing the HBV viral load by administering to the individual a therapeutically effective amount of a compound of the present disclosure alone or in combination with a reverse transcriptase inhibitor; and further administering to the individual a therapeutically effective amount of HBV vaccine. The reverse transcriptase inhibitor may be one of Zidovudine, Didanosine, Zalcitabine, ddA, Stavudine, Lamivudine, Abacavir, Emtricitabine, Entecavir, Apricitabine, Atevirapine, ribavirin, acyclovir, famciclovir, valacyclovir, ganciclovir, valganciclovir, Tenofovir, Adefovir, PMPA, cidofovir, Efavirenz, Nevirapine, Delavirdine, or Etravirine.

Compositions and immunogenic combinations of the application can also be administered in combination with at least one other anti-HBV agent. Examples of anti-HBV agents suitable for use with the application include, but are not limited to small molecules, antibodies, and/or CAR-T therapies which bind HBV env (S-CAR cells), capsid assembly modulators, TLR agonists (e.g., TLR7 and/or TLR8 agonists), cccDNA inhibitors, HBV polymerase inhibitors (e.g., entecavir and tenofovir), and/or immune checkpoint inhibitors, etc. The at least one anti-HBV agent can e.g., be chosen from among HBV DNA polymerase inhibitors; Immunomodulators; Toll-like receptor 7 modulators; Toll-like receptor 8 modulators; Toll-like receptor 3 modulators; Interferon alpha receptor ligands; Hyaluronidase inhibitors; Modulators of IL-10; HBsAg inhibitors; Toll like receptor 9 modulators; Cyclophilin inhibitors; HBV Prophylactic vaccines; HBV Therapeutic vaccines; HBV viral entry inhibitors; Antisense oligonucleotides targeting viral mRNA, more particularly anti-HBV antisense oligonucleotides; short interfering RNAs (siRNA), more particularly anti-HBV siRNA; Endonuclease modulators; Inhibitors of ribonucleotide reductase; Hepatitis B virus E antigen inhibitors; HBV antibodies targeting the surface antigens of the hepatitis B virus; HBV antibodies; CCR2 chemokine antagonists; Thymosin agonists; Cytokines, such as IL12; Capsid Assembly Modulators, Nucleoprotein inhibitors (HBV core or capsid protein inhibitors); Nucleic Acid Polymers (NAPs); Stimulators of retinoic acid-inducible gene 1; Stimulators of NOD2; Recombinant thymosin alpha- 1; Hepatitis B virus replication inhibitors; PI3K inhibitors; cccDNA inhibitors; immune checkpoint inhibitors, such as PD-L1 inhibitors, PD-l inhibitors, TIM-3 inhibitors, TIGIT inhibitors, Lag3 inhibitors, CTLA-4 inhibitors; Agonists of co-stimulatory receptors that are expressed on immune cells (more particularly T cells), such as CD27, CD28; BTK inhibitors; Other drugs for treating HBV; IDO inhibitors; Arginase inhibitors; and KDM5 inhibitors. Such anti-HBV agents can be administered with the compositions and immunogenic combinations of the application simultaneously or sequentially. For any combination therapy described herein, synergistic effect may be calculated, for example, using suitable methods such as the Sigmoid-E _max equation (Holford & Scheiner, 19981, Clin.

Pharmacokinet. 6: 429-453), the equation of Loewe additivity (Loewe & Muischnek, 1926, Arch. Exp. Pathol Pharmacol. 114: 313-326) and the median-effect equation (Chou & Talalay, 1984, Adv. Enzyme Regul. 22: 27-55). Each equation referred to above may be applied to experimental data to generate a corresponding graph to aid in assessing the effects of the drug combination. The corresponding graphs associated with the equations referred to above are the concentration-effect curve, isobologram curve and combination index curve, respectively.

Definitions

Listed below are definitions of various terms used to describe this present disclosure. These definitions apply to the terms as they are used throughout this specification and claims, unless otherwise limited in specific instances, either individually or as part of a larger group.

Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein generally have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the applicable art. Generally, the nomenclature used herein and the laboratory procedures in cell culture, molecular genetics, organic chemistry, and peptide chemistry are those well-known and commonly employed in the art.

As used herein, the articles“a” and“an” refer to one or to more than one (i.e. to at least one) of the grammatical object of the article. By way of example,“an element” means one element or more than one element.

As used herein, the terms "including", "containing" and“comprising” are used herein in their open, non-limiting sense.

The term“alkyl” refers to a straight- or branched-chain alkyl group having from 1 to 12 carbon atoms in the chain. Examples of alkyl groups include methyl (Me, which also may be structurally depicted by the symbol,“/”), ethyl (Et), n-propyl, isopropyl, butyl, isobutyl, sec-butyl, tert-butyl (tBu), pentyl, isopentyl, tert-pentyl, hexyl, isohexyl, and groups that in light of the ordinary skill in the art and the teachings provided herein would be considered equivalent to any one of the foregoing examples. The term Ci^alkyl as used here refers to a straight- or branched-chain alkyl group having from 1 to 4 carbon atoms in the chain. The term Ci- ₆ alkyl as used here refers to a straight- or branched-chain alkyl group having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms in the chain.

The term“heteroaryl” refers to a monocyclic or fused bicyclic heterocycle (ring structure having ring atoms selected from carbon atoms and up to four heteroatoms selected from nitrogen, oxygen, and sulfur) having from 3 to 9 ring atoms per heterocycle. Illustrative examples of heteroaryl groups include the following entities, in the form of properly bonded moieties:

Those skilled in the art will recognize that the species of heteroaryl groups listed o illustrated above are not exhaustive, and that additional species within the scope of these defined terms may also be selected.

The term“cyano” refers to the group -CN.

The term“halo” represents chloro, fluoro, bromo or iodo.

The term“perhaloalkyl” or“haloalkyl” refers to a straight- or branched-chain alkyl group having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms in the chain optionally substituting hydrogens with halogens. The term“Ci- z _t haloalkyl” as used here refers to a straight- or branched-chain alkyl group having from 1 to 4 carbon atoms in the chain, optionally substituting hydrogens with halogens. The term“Ci- ₆ haloalkyl” as used here refers to a straight- or branched-chain alkyl group having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms in the chain, optionally substituting hydrogens with halogens. Examples of“perhaloalkyl”,“haloalkyl” groups include trifluoromethyl (CF3), difluoromethyl (CF2H), monofluoromethyl (CFfiF), pentafluoroethyl (CF2CF3), tetrafluoroethyl (CHFCF3),monofluoroethyl (CH2CH2F), trifluoroethyl (CH2CF3),

tetrafluorotrifluoromethylethyl (-CF(CF3)2), and groups that in light of the ordinary skill in the art and the teachings provided herein would be considered equivalent to any one of the foregoing examples.

The term“substituted” means that the specified group or moiety bears one or more substituents. The term "unsubstituted" means that the specified group bears no substituents. The term“optionally substituted” means that the specified group is unsubstituted or substituted by one or more substituents. Where the term“substituted” is used to describe a structural system, the substitution is meant to occur at any valency-allowed position on the system. In cases where a specified moiety or group is not expressly noted as being optionally substituted or substituted with any specified substituent, it is understood that such a moiety or group is intended to be unsubstituted.

The terms“para”,“meta”, and“ortho” have the meanings as understood in the art. Thus, for example, a fully substituted phenyl group has substituents at both“ortho”(o) positions adjacent to the point of attachment of the phenyl ring, both“meta” (m) positions, and the one“para” (p) position across from the point of attachment. To further clarify the position of substituents on the phenyl ring, the 2 different ortho positions will be designated as ortho and ortho’ and the 2 different meta positions as meta and meta’ as illustrated below.

When referring to substituents on a pyridyl group, the terms“para”,“meta”, and“ortho” refer to the placement of a substituent relative to the point of attachment of the pyridyl ring. For example, the structure below is described as 3 -pyridyl with the X ¹ substituent in the ortho position, the X ² substituent in the meta position, and X ³ substituent in the para position:

To provide a more concise description, some of the quantitative expressions given herein are not qualified with the term“about”. It is understood that, whether the term“about” is used explicitly or not, every quantity given herein is meant to refer to the actual given value, and it is also meant to refer to the approximation to such given value that would reasonably be inferred based on the ordinary skill in the art, including equivalents and approximations due to the experimental and/or measurement conditions for such given value. Whenever a yield is given as a percentage, such yield refers to a mass of the entity for which the yield is given with respect to the maximum amount of the same entity that could be obtained under the particular stoichiometric conditions. Concentrations that are given as percentages refer to mass ratios, unless indicated differently.

The terms“buffered” solution or“buffer” solution are used herein interchangeably according to their standard meaning. Buffered solutions are used to control the pH of a medium, and their choice, use, and function is known to those of ordinary skill in the art. See, for example, G.D. Considine, ed., Van Nostrand’s Encyclopedia of Chemistry, p. 261, 5 ^th ed. (2005), describing, inter alia, buffer solutions and how the concentrations of the buffer constituents relate to the pH of the buffer. For example, a buffered solution is obtained by adding MgSCE and NaHCCE to a solution in a 10: 1 w/w ratio to maintain the pH of the solution at about 7.5.

Any formula given herein is intended to represent compounds having structures depicted by the structural formula as well as certain variations or forms. In particular, compounds of any formula given herein may have asymmetric centers and therefore exist in different enantiomeric forms. All optical isomers of the compounds of the general formula, and mixtures thereof, are considered within the scope of the formula. Thus, any formula given herein is intended to represent a racemate, one or more enantiomeric forms, one or more diastereomeric forms, one or more atropisomeric forms, and mixtures thereof. Furthermore, certain structures may exist as geometric isomers (i.e., cis and trans isomers), as tautomers, or as atropisomers.

It is also to be understood that compounds that have the same molecular formula but differ in the nature or sequence of bonding of their atoms or the arrangement of their atoms in space are termed “isomers.”

Stereoisomers that are not mirror images of one another are termed“diastereomers” and those that are non-superimposable mirror images of each other are termed“enantiomers.” When a compound has an asymmetric center, for example, it is bonded to four different groups, and a pair of enantiomers is possible. An enantiomer can be characterized by the absolute configuration of its asymmetric center and is described by the R-and ^-sequencing rules of Cahn and Prelog, or by the manner in which the molecule rotates the plane of polarized light and designated as dextrorotatory or levorotatory (i.e.. as (+)- or (-)- isomers respectively). A chiral compound can exist as either an individual enantiomer or as a mixture thereof. A mixture containing equal proportions of the enantiomers is called a“racemic mixture.”

“Tautomers” refer to compounds that are interchangeable forms of a particular compound structure, and that vary in the displacement of hydrogen atoms and electrons. Thus, two structures may be in equilibrium through the movement of p electrons and an atom (usually H). For example, enols and ketones are tautomers because they are rapidly interconverted by treatment with either acid or base. Another example of tautomerism is the aci-and nitro-forms of phenyl nitromethane, that are likewise formed by treatment with acid or base.

Tautomeric forms may be relevant to the attainment of the optimal chemical reactivity and biological activity of a compound of interest.

The compounds of this present disclosure may possess one or more asymmetric centers; such compounds can therefore be produced as individual ( R )- or (.S ^' )-stereoisomers or as mixtures thereof.

Unless indicated otherwise, the description or naming of a particular compound in the specification and claims is intended to include both individual enantiomers and mixtures, racemic or otherwise, thereof. The methods for the determination of stereochemistry and the separation of stereoisomers are well-known in the art. Certain examples contain chemical structures that are depicted as an absolute enantiomer but are intended to indicate enatiopure material that is of unknown configuration. In these cases (R*) or (S*) is used in the name to indicate that the absolute stereochemistry of the corresponding stereocenter is unknown. Thus, a compound designated as (R*) refers to an enantiopure compound with an absolute configuration of either (R) or (S). In cases where the absolute stereochemistry has been confirmed, the structures are named using (R) and (S).

The symbols and are used as meaning the same spatial arrangement in chemical structures shown herein. Analogously, the symbols ^{11111111111 1} and . ^{11 1} are used as meaning the same spatial arrangement in chemical structures shown herein.

Additionally, any formula given herein is intended to refer also to hydrates, solvates, and polymorphs of such compounds, and mixtures thereof, even if such forms are not listed explicitly. Certain compounds of Formula (I), or pharmaceutically acceptable salts of compounds of Formula (I), may be obtained as solvates. Solvates include those formed from the interaction or complexation of compounds of the present disclosure with one or more solvents, either in solution or as a solid or crystalline form. In some embodiments, the solvent is water and the solvates are hydrates. In addition, certain crystalline forms of compounds of Formula (I), or pharmaceutically acceptable salts of compounds of Formula (I) may be obtained as co-crystals. In certain embodiments of the present disclosure, compounds of Formula (I) were obtained in a crystalline form. In other embodiments, crystalline forms of compounds of Formula (I) were cubic in nature. In other embodiments, pharmaceutically acceptable salts of compounds of Formula (I) were obtained in a crystalline form. In still other embodiments, compounds of Formula (I) were obtained in one of several polymorphic forms, as a mixture of crystalline forms, as a polymorphic form, or as an amorphous form. In other embodiments, compounds of Formula (I) convert in solution between one or more crystalline forms and/or polymorphic forms.

Reference to a compound herein stands for a reference to any one of: (a) the actually recited form of such compound, and (b) any of the forms of such compound in the medium in which the compound is being considered when named. For example, reference herein to a compound such as R-COOH, encompasses reference to any one of, for example, R-COOH _(S) , R-COOH _(SOi) , and R-COO _(SOi) . In this example, R-COOH _(s) refers to the solid compound, as it could be for example in a tablet or some other solid pharmaceutical composition or preparation; R-COOH _(soi) refers to the undissociated form of the compound in a solvent; and R-COO _(SOi) refers to the dissociated form of the compound in a solvent, such as the dissociated form of the compound in an aqueous environment, whether such dissociated form derives from R-COOH, from a salt thereof, or from any other entity that yields R-COO upon dissociation in the medium being considered. In another example, an expression such as“exposing an entity to compound of formula R-COOH” refers to the exposure of such entity to the form, or forms, of the compound R-COOH that exists, or exist, in the medium in which such exposure takes place. In still another example, an expression such as“reacting an entity with a compound of formula R-COOH” refers to the reacting of (a) such entity in the chemically relevant form, or forms, of such entity that exists, or exist, in the medium in which such reacting takes place, with (b) the chemically relevant form, or forms, of the compound R-COOH that exists, or exist, in the medium in which such reacting takes place. In this regard, if such entity is for example in an aqueous environment, it is understood that the compound R- COOH is in such same medium, and therefore the entity is being exposed to species such as R-COOH _(aq) and/or R-COO _(aq) , where the subscript“(aq)” stands for“aqueous” according to its conventional meaning in chemistry and biochemistry. A carboxylic acid functional group has been chosen in these nomenclature examples; this choice is not intended, however, as a limitation but it is merely an illustration. It is understood that analogous examples can be provided in terms of other functional groups, including but not limited to hydroxyl, basic nitrogen members, such as those in amines, and any other group that interacts or transforms according to known manners in the medium that contains the compound. Such interactions and transformations include, but are not limited to, dissociation, association, tautomerism, solvolysis, including hydrolysis, solvation, including hydration, protonation, and deprotonation. No further examples in this regard are provided herein because these interactions and transformations in a given medium are known by any one of ordinary skill in the art.

In another example, a zwitterionic compound is encompassed herein by referring to a compound that is known to form a zwitterion, even if it is not explicitly named in its zwitterionic form. Terms such as zwitterion, zwitterions, and their synonyms zwitterionic compound(s) are standard IUPAC-endorsed names that are well known and part of standard sets of defined scientific names. In this regard, the name zwitterion is assigned the name identification CHEBI:27369 by the Chemical Entities of Biological Interest (ChEBI) dictionary of molecular entities. As generally well known, a zwitterion or zwitterionic compound is a neutral compound that has formal unit charges of opposite sign. Sometimes these compounds are referred to by the term“inner salts”. Other sources refer to these compounds as“dipolar ions”, although the latter term is regarded by still other sources as a misnomer. As a specific example, aminoethanoic acid (the amino acid glycine) has the formula H2NCH2COOH, and it exists in some media (in this case in neutral media) in the form of the zwitterion TTNCTTCOO . Zwitterions, zwitterionic compounds, inner salts and dipolar ions in the known and well established meanings of these terms are within the scope of this present disclosure, as would in any case be so appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art. Because there is no need to name each and every embodiment that would be recognized by those of ordinary skill in the art, no structures of the zwitterionic compounds that are associated with the compounds of this present disclosure are given explicitly herein. They are, however, part of the embodiments of this present disclosure. No further examples in this regard are provided herein because the interactions and transformations in a given medium that lead to the various forms of a given compound are known by any one of ordinary skill in the art.

Any formula given herein is also intended to represent unlabeled forms as well as isotopically labeled forms of the compounds. Isotopically labeled compounds have structures depicted by the formulas given herein except that one or more atoms are replaced by an atom having a selected atomic mass or mass number. Examples of isotopes that can be incorporated into compounds of the present disclosure include isotopes of hydrogen, carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, phosphorus, sulfur, fluorine, chlorine, and iodine such as ² H, ³ H, ^U C, ¹³ C, ¹⁴ C, ¹⁵ N, ¹⁸ 0, ¹⁷ 0, ³¹ P, ³² P, ³⁵ S, ¹⁸ F, ³⁶ C1, ¹²⁵ I, respectively. Such isotopically labeled compounds are useful in metabolic studies (preferably with ¹⁴ C), reaction kinetic studies (with, for example deuterium (i.e., D or ² H); or tritium (i.e., T or ¾)), detection or imaging techniques such as positron emission tomography (PET) or single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) including drug or substrate tissue distribution assays, or in radioactive treatment of patients. In particular, an ¹⁸ F or ^U C labeled compound may be particularly preferred for PET or SPECT studies. Further, substitution with heavier isotopes such as deuterium (i.e., ² H) may afford certain therapeutic advantages resulting from greater metabolic stability, for example increased in vivo half-life or reduced dosage requirements. Isotopically labeled compounds of this present disclosure and prodrugs thereof can generally be prepared by carrying out the procedures disclosed in the schemes or in the examples and preparations described below by substituting a readily available isotopically labeled reagent for a non- isotopically labeled reagent.

When referring to any formula given herein, the selection of a particular moiety from a list of possible species for a specified variable is not intended to define the same choice of the species for the variable appearing elsewhere. In other words, where a variable appears more than once, the choice of the species from a specified list is independent of the choice of the species for the same variable elsewhere in the formula, unless stated otherwise.

According to the foregoing interpretive considerations on assignments and nomenclature, it is understood that explicit reference herein to a set implies, where chemically meaningful and unless indicated otherwise, independent reference to embodiments of such set, and reference to each and every one of the possible embodiments of subsets of the set referred to explicitly.

By way of a first example on substituent terminology, if substituent S Example is one of Si and S ₂ , and substituent S ² _e xam _P ie is one of S3 and S ₄ , then these assignments refer to embodiments of this present disclosure given according to the choices S example is S i and S exa ple is S3, S example is S i and S example IS S4,

S E _xample is S2 and S ² _exampie is S3; S E _xample is S2 and Samp _le is S4; and equivalents of each one of such choices. The shorter terminology“S Example is one of S i and S ₂ , and S ² _e xam _P ie is one of S3 and S ₄ ” is accordingly used herein for the sake of brevity, but not by way of limitation. The foregoing first example on substituent terminology, which is stated in generic terms, is meant to illustrate the various substituent assignments described herein. The foregoing convention given herein for substituents extends, when applicable, to members such as R ¹ , R ² , R ³ , R ⁴ , R ⁵ , R ⁶ , R ⁷ , X ¹ , X ² , X ³ , X ⁴ , n, Het, PG, and any other generic substituent symbol used herein.

Furthermore, when more than one assignment is given for any member or substituent, embodiments of this present disclosure comprise the various groupings that can be made from the listed assignments, taken independently, and equivalents thereof. By way of a second example on substituent terminology, if it is herein described that substituent S _ex ampie is one of Si, S ₂ . and S ₃ , this listing refers to embodiments of this present disclosure for which S _ex ampie is S p S _exa mpie is S ₂ : S _exa mpie is S3; S _exa mpie is one of S i and S ₂ ; S _exa mpie is one of S i and S ₃ ; S _exa mpie is one of S ₂ and S ₃ ; S _exa mpie is one of S i, S ₂ and S ₃ ; and Sesunpie is any equivalent of each one of these choices. The shorter terminology“S _exam pie is one of Si, S ₂ , and S ₃ ” is accordingly used herein for the sake of brevity, but not by way of limitation. The foregoing second example on substituent terminology, which is stated in generic terms, is meant to illustrate the various substituent assignments described herein. The foregoing convention given herein for substituents extends, when applicable, to members such as R ¹ , R ² , R ³ , R ⁴ , R ⁵ , R ⁶ , R ⁷ , X ¹ , X ² , X ³ , X ⁴ , n, Het, PG, and any other generic substituent symbol used herein.

The nomenclature“Ci-j” with j > i, when applied herein to a class of substituents, is meant to refer to embodiments of this present disclosure for which each and every one of the number of carbon members, from i to j including i and j, is independently realized. By way of example, the term C _M refers independently to embodiments that have one carbon member (Ci), embodiments that have two carbon members (C ₂ ), embodiments that have three carbon members (C ₃ ), and embodiments that have four carbon members (C ₄ ).

The term C _n-m alkyl refers to an aliphatic chain, whether straight or branched, with a total number N of carbon members in the chain that satisfies n < N < m, with m > n. Any disubstituent referred to herein is meant to encompass the various attachment possibilities when more than one of such possibilities are allowed. For example, reference to disubstituent -A-B-, where A ¹ B, refers herein to such disubstituent with A attached to a first substituted member and B attached to a second substituted member, and it also refers to such disubstituent with A attached to the second substituted member and B attached to the first substituted member.

The present disclosure includes also pharmaceutically acceptable salts of the compounds of Formula (I) (as well as Formula (IA) and Formula (IB), preferably of those described above and of the specific compounds exemplified herein, and methods of treatment using such salts.

The term“pharmaceutically acceptable” means approved or approvable by a regulatory agency of Federal or a state government or the corresponding agency in countries other than the United States, or that is listed in the U. S. Pharmcopoeia or other generally recognized pharmacopoeia for use in animals, and more particularly, in humans.

A "pharmaceutically acceptable salt” is intended to mean a salt of a free acid or base of compounds represented by Formula (I) that are non-toxic, biologically tolerable, or otherwise biologically suitable for administration to the subject. It should possess the desired pharmacological activity of the parent compound. See, generally, G.S. Paulekuhn, et al.,“Trends in Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient Salt Selection based on Analysis of the Orange Book Database”, J. Med. Chem., 2007, 50:6665-72, S.M. Berge, et al.,“Pharmaceutical Salts”, JPharm Sci., 1977, 66: 1-19, and Handbook of Pharmaceutical Salts, Properties, Selection, and Use, Stahl and Wermuth, Eds., Wiley-VCH and VHCA, Zurich, 2002. Examples of pharmaceutically acceptable salts are those that are pharmacologically effective and suitable for contact with the tissues of patients without undue toxicity, irritation, or allergic response. A compound of Formula (I) may possess a sufficiently acidic group, a sufficiently basic group, or both types of functional groups, and accordingly react with a number of inorganic or organic bases, and inorganic and organic acids, to form a pharmaceutically acceptable salt.

Examples of pharmaceutically acceptable salts include sulfates, pyrosulfates, bisulfates, sulfites, bisulfites, phosphates, monohydrogen-phosphates, dihydrogenphosphates, metaphosphates,

pyrophosphates, chlorides, bromides, iodides, acetates, propionates, decanoates, caprylates, acrylates, formates, isobutyrates, caproates, heptanoates, propiolates, oxalates, malonates, succinates, suberates, sebacates, fumarates, maleates, butyne-l,4-dioates, hexyne-l,6-dioates, benzoates, chlorobenzoates, methylbenzoates, dinitrobenzoates, hydroxybenzoates, methoxybenzoates, phthalates, sulfonates, xylenesulfonates, phenylacetates, phenylpropionates, phenylbutyrates, citrates, lactates, g- hydroxybutyrates, glycolates, tartrates, methane-sulfonates, propane sulfonates, naphthalene- 1 -sulfonates, naphthalene-2-sulfonates, and mandelates.

When the compounds of Formula (I) contain a basic nitrogen, the desired pharmaceutically acceptable salt may be prepared by any suitable method available in the art. For example, treatment of the free base with an inorganic acid, such as hydrochloric acid, hydrobromic acid, sulfuric acid, sulfamic acid, nitric acid, boric acid, phosphoric acid, and the like, or with an organic acid, such as acetic acid, phenylacetic acid, propionic acid, stearic acid, lactic acid, ascorbic acid, maleic acid, hydroxymaleic acid, isethionic acid, succinic acid, valeric acid, fumaric acid, malonic acid, pyruvic acid, oxalic acid, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, oleic acid, palmitic acid, lauric acid, a pyranosidyl acid, such as glucuronic acid or galacturonic acid, an alpha-hydroxy acid, such as mandelic acid, citric acid, or tartaric acid, an amino acid, such as aspartic acid, glutaric acid or glutamic acid, an aromatic acid, such as benzoic acid, 2- acetoxybenzoic acid, naphthoic acid, or cinnamic acid, a sulfonic acid, such as laurylsulfonic acid, p- toluenesulfonic acid, methane sulfonic acid, ethane sulfonic acid, any compatible mixture of acids such as those given as examples herein, and any other acid and mixture thereof that are regarded as equivalents or acceptable substitutes in light of the ordinary level of skill in this technology.

When the compound of Formula (I) is an acid, such as a carboxylic acid or sulfonic acid, the desired pharmaceutically acceptable salt may be prepared by any suitable method, for example, treatment of the free acid with an inorganic or organic base, such as an amine (primary, secondary or tertiary), an alkali metal hydroxide, alkaline earth metal hydroxide, any compatible mixture of bases such as those given as examples herein, and any other base and mixture thereof that are regarded as equivalents or acceptable substitutes in light of the ordinary level of skill in this technology. Illustrative examples of suitable salts include organic salts derived from amino acids, such as A - m c t h y 1 - D -g 1 ucam i n c . lysine, choline, glycine and arginine, ammonia, carbonates, bicarbonates, primary, secondary, and tertiary amines, and cyclic amines, such as tromethamine, benzylamines, pyrrolidines, piperidine, morpholine, and piperazine, and inorganic salts derived from sodium, calcium, potassium, magnesium, manganese, iron, copper, zinc, aluminum, and lithium.

The present disclosure also relates to pharmaceutically acceptable prodrugs of the compounds of Formula (I), and treatment methods employing such pharmaceutically acceptable prodrugs. The term "prodrug" means a precursor of a designated compound that, following administration to a subject, yields the compound in vivo via a chemical or physiological process such as solvolysis or enzymatic cleavage, or under physiological conditions (e.g., a prodrug on being brought to physiological pH is converted to the compound of Formula (I). A "pharmaceutically acceptable prodrug” is a prodrug that is non-toxic, biologically tolerable, and otherwise biologically suitable for administration to the subject. Illustrative procedures for the selection and preparation of suitable prodrug derivatives are described, for example, in “ Design of Prodrugs” , ed. H. Bundgaard, Elsevier, 1985.

Exemplary prodrugs include compounds having an amino acid residue, or a polypeptide chain of two or more (e.g., two, three or four) amino acid residues, covalently joined through an amide or ester bond to a free amino, hydroxyl, or carboxylic acid group of a compound of Formula (I) . Examples of amino acid residues include the twenty naturally occurring amino acids, commonly designated by three letter symbols, as well as 4-hydroxyproline, hydroxy lysine, demosine, isodemosine, 3-methylhistidine, norvalin, beta-alanine, gamma-aminobutyric acid, citrulline homocysteine, homoserine, ornithine and methionine sulfone. Additional types of prodrugs may be produced, for instance, by derivatizing free carboxyl groups of structures of Formula (I) as amides or alkyl esters. Examples of amides include those derived from ammonia, primary Ci- ₆ alkyl amines and secondary di(Ci- ₆ alkyl) amines. Secondary amines include 5- or 6-membered heterocycloalkyl or heteroaryl ring moieties. Examples of amides include those that are derived from ammonia, Ci-3alkyl primary amines, and di(Ci-2alkyl)amines. Examples of esters of the present disclosure include Cwalkyl, CAvcycloalkyl. phenyl, and phenyl(Ci- ₆ alkyl) esters. Preferred esters include methyl esters. Prodrugs may also be prepared by derivatizing free hydroxy groups using groups including hemisuccinates, phosphate esters, dimethylaminoacetates, and

phosphoryloxymethyloxycarbonyls, following procedures such as those outlined in Fleisher et al, Adv. Drug Delivery Rev. 1996, 19, 115-130. Carbamate derivatives of hydroxy and amino groups may also yield prodrugs. Carbonate derivatives, sulfonate esters, and sulfate esters of hydroxy groups may also provide prodrugs. Derivatization of hydroxy groups as (acyloxy)methyl and (acyloxy)ethyl ethers, wherein the acyl group may be an alkyl ester, optionally substituted with one or more ether, amine, or carboxylic acid functionalities, or where the acyl group is an amino acid ester as described above, is also useful to yield prodrugs. Prodrugs of this type may be prepared as described in Robinson et al., J Med Chem. 1996, 39 (1), 10-18. Free amines can also be derivatized as amides, sulfonamides or

phosphonamides. All of these prodrug moieties may incorporate groups including ether, amine, and carboxylic acid functionalities.

The present disclosure also relates to pharmaceutically active metabolites of the compounds of Formula (I), which may also be used in the methods of the present disclosure. A "pharmaceutically active metabolite” means a pharmacologically active product of metabolism in the body of a compound of Formula (I) or salt thereof. Prodrugs and active metabolites of a compound may be determined using routine techniques known or available in the art. See, e.g., Bertolini, et al., JMed Chem. 1997, 40, 2011- 2016; Shan, et al., JPharm Sci. 1997, 86 (7), 765-767; Bagshawe, Drug Dev Res. 1995, 34, 220-230; Bodor, Adv Drug Res. 1984, 13, 224-331; Bundgaard, Design of Prodrugs (Elsevier Press, 1985); and Larsen, Design and Application of Prodrugs, Drug Design and Development (Krogsgaard-Larsen, et al., eds., Harwood Academic Publishers, 1991).

The term“modulators” include both inhibitors and activators, where "inhibitors” refer to compounds that decrease, prevent, inactivate, desensitize, or down-regulate HBV assembly and other HBV core protein functions necessary for HBV replication or the generation of infectious particles.

As used herein, the term“capsid assembly modulator” refers to a compound that disrupts or accelerates or inhibits or hinders or delays or reduces or modifies normal capsid assembly (e.g., during maturation) or normal capsid disassembly (e.g., during infectivity) or perturbs capsid stability, thereby inducing aberrant capsid morphology and function. In one embodiment, a capsid assembly modulator accelerates capsid assembly or disassembly, thereby inducing aberrant capsid morphology. In another embodiment, a capsid assembly modulator interacts (e.g. binds at an active site, binds at an allosteric site, modifies and/or hinders folding and the like) with the major capsid assembly protein (CA), thereby disrupting capsid assembly or disassembly. In yet another embodiment, a capsid assembly modulator causes a perturbation in structure or function of CA (e.g., ability of CA to assemble, disassemble, bind to a substrate, fold into a suitable conformation, or the like), which attenuates viral infectivity and/or is lethal to the virus.

As used herein, the term“treatment” or“treating,” is defined as the application or administration of a therapeutic agent, i.e., a compound of the present disclosure (alone or in combination with another pharmaceutical agent), to a patient, or application or administration of a therapeutic agent to an isolated tissue or cell line from a patient (e.g., for diagnosis or ex vivo applications), who has an HBV infection, a symptom of HBV infection or the potential to develop an HBV infection, with the purpose to cure, heal, alleviate, relieve, alter, remedy, ameliorate, improve or affect the HBV infection, the symptoms of HBV infection or the potential to develop an HBV infection. Such treatments may be specifically tailored or modified, based on knowledge obtained from the field of pharmacogenomics.

As used herein, the term“prevent” or“prevention” means no disorder or disease development if none had occurred, or no further disorder or disease development if there had already been development of the disorder or disease. Also considered is the ability of one to prevent some or all of the symptoms associated with the disorder or disease.

As used herein, the term“patient,”“individual” or“subject” refers to a human or a non-human mammal. Non-human mammals include, for example, livestock and pets, such as ovine, bovine, porcine, canine, feline and murine mammals. Preferably, the patient, subject or individual is human.

In treatment methods according to the present disclosure, an effective amount of a pharmaceutical agent according to the present disclosure is administered to a subject suffering from or diagnosed as having such a disease, disorder, or condition. An "effective amount" means an amount or dose sufficient to generally bring about the desired therapeutic or prophylactic benefit in patients in need of such treatment for the designated disease, disorder, or condition. Effective amounts or doses of the compounds of the present disclosure may be ascertained by routine methods such as modeling, dose escalation studies or clinical trials, and by taking into consideration routine factors, e.g., the mode or route of administration or drug delivery, the pharmacokinetics of the compound, the severity and course of the disease, disorder, or condition, the subject's previous or ongoing therapy, the subject's health status and response to drugs, and the judgment of the treating physician. An example of a dose is in the range of from about 0.001 to about 200 mg of compound per kg of subject's body weight per day, preferably about 0.05 to 100 mg/kg/day, or about 1 to 35 mg/kg/day, in single or divided dosage units (e.g., BID, TID, QID). For a 70- kg human, an illustrative range for a suitable dosage amount is from about 0.05 to about 7 g/day, or about 0.2 to about 2.5 g/day.

An example of a dose of a compound is from about 1 mg to about 2,500 mg. In some embodiments, a dose of a compound of the present disclosure used in compositions described herein is less than about 10,000 mg, or less than about 8,000 mg, or less than about 6,000 mg, or less than about 5,000 mg, or less than about 3,000 mg, or less than about 2,000 mg, or less than about 1,000 mg, or less than about 500 mg, or less than about 200 mg, or less than about 50 mg. Similarly, in some

embodiments, a dose of a second compound (i.e., another drug for HBV treatment) as described herein is less than about 1,000 mg, or less than about 800 mg, or less than about 600 mg, or less than about 500 mg, or less than about 400 mg, or less than about 300 mg, or less than about 200 mg, or less than about 100 mg, or less than about 50 mg, or less than about 40 mg, or less than about 30 mg, or less than about 25 mg, or less than about 20 mg, or less than about 15 mg, or less than about 10 mg, or less than about 5 mg, or less than about 2 mg, or less than about 1 mg, or less than about 0.5 mg, and any and all whole or partial increments thereof.

Once improvement of the patient's disease, disorder, or condition has occurred, the dose may be adjusted for preventative or maintenance treatment. For example, the dosage or the frequency of administration, or both, may be reduced as a function of the symptoms, to a level at which the desired therapeutic or prophylactic effect is maintained. Of course, if symptoms have been alleviated to an appropriate level, treatment may cease. Patients may, however, require intermittent treatment on a long term basis upon any recurrence of symptoms.

EXAMPLES

Exemplary compounds useful in methods of the present disclosure will now be described by reference to the illustrative synthetic schemes for their general preparation below and the specific examples that follow. Artisans will recognize that, to obtain the various compounds herein, starting materials may be suitably selected so that the ultimately desired substituents will be carried through the reaction scheme with or without protection as appropriate to yield the desired product. Alternatively, it may be necessary or desirable to employ, in the place of the ultimately desired substituent, a suitable group that may be carried through the reaction scheme and replaced as appropriate with the desired substituent. Unless otherwise specified, the variables are as defined above in reference to Formula (I). Reactions may be performed between the melting point and the reflux temperature of the solvent, and preferably between 0 °C and the reflux temperature of the solvent. Reactions may be heated employing conventional heating or microwave heating. Reactions may also be conducted in sealed pressure vessels above the normal reflux temperature of the solvent.

Abbreviations and acronyms used herein include the following set forth in Table 2:

Table 2:

Synthesis

Exemplary compounds useful in methods of the present disclosure will now be described by reference to the illustrative synthetic schemes for their general preparation below and the specific examples to follow.

Scheme 1

According to Scheme 1, a beta keto-ester of formula (IV) is formed by the reaction of a compound of formula (II), where PG is a suitable nitrogen protecting group such as Boc, and the like, and R ³ and R ⁴ are H or Ci-4alkyl; with a compound of formula (III), where Het is an optionally substituted five or six-membered heteroaryl ring such as pyrimidine, and the like; a suitable base such as LiHMDS or LDA, and the like; in a solvent such as THF or dioxane, at temperatures ranging from 0 °C to 15 °C; for a period of 3-6 h. For example, a compound of formula (II), where PG is Boc, R ³ is H, and R ⁴ is C¾, is reacted with a suitable base such as LiHMDS, a compound of formula (III), where Het is pyrimidine; in a solvent such as THF; to provide a compound of formula (IV). A beta keto-ester of formula (IV), is reacted with hydroxylamine hydrochloride, in a suitable solvent such as EtOH and the like, at temperature of about 70 °C, for a period of about 60 h, to provide isoxazole compounds of formula (Va) and formula (Vb). Cyclization to the isoxazole and subsequent deprotection proceeds in-situ. A compound of formula (Va) and (Vb), where Het is thiazole, or pyrazole may be prepared in a manner as previously described employing a compound of formula (III), where Het is thiazole, or pyrazole.

Scheme 2

According to Scheme 2, a compound of formula (VII), where R ¹ and R ² are Ci-4alkyl, and PG is a suitable nitrogen protecting group such as Boc, is prepared in a manner analogous to a compound of formula (IV) as previously described. For example, tert-butyl 3,3-dimethyl-4-oxo-piperidine-l- carboxylate is reacted with a base such as LiHMDS, in a solvent such as THF, at a temperature of about - 78 °C, followed by the addition of a compound of formula (III), where Het is pyrimidine, at a temperature ranging from -78 °C to 20 °C, for a period of 2 h, to provide a compound of formula (VII). Compounds of formula (Villa) and (VUIb) are prepared from a compound of formula (VII) in two steps. In a first step, a beta keto-ester of formula (VII), where R ¹ and R ² are Ci-4alkyl, and PG is Boc, is reacted with hydroxylamine hydrochloride and NaOAc, in a suitable solvent such as EtOH and the like, at temperature of about 70 °C, for a period of about 60 h, to provide the oxime intermediate. In a second step, reaction of the oxime intermediate with MsCl, a base such as TEA and the like, in a solvent such as DCM, and the like, at a temperature of about 0 °C to 25 °C, provides the cyclized isoxazole compounds of formula (Villa) and (VUIb). A compound of formula (Villa) or (VUIb) is deprotected with acid such as TFA, HC1, and the like, in a suitable solvent such as DCM, and the like, to provide a compound of formula (IXa) or (IXb).

Scheme 3

According to Scheme 3, a compound of formula (X) [as well as Va, Vb, IXa, IXb], where R ¹ , R ² , R ³ , and R ⁴ are each independently H or Ci-4alkyl, and X ¹ and X ² are each independently O or N; is reacted with a commercially available or synthetically accessible compound of formula (XI), where X ³ and X ⁴ are each independently C-R ⁶ or N; wherein when X ³ is C-R ⁶ or N, X ⁴ is C-R ⁶ ; wherein when X ⁴ is C-R ⁶ or N, X ³ is C-R ⁶ ; R ⁵ and R ⁶ are each independently selected from the group consisting of: H, halo, Ci-z _t haloalkyl, and CN; and n is 1 or 2; a base such as TEA or DIEA and the like, in a suitable solvent such as DCM or DCE, to provide a compound of Formula (I).

Compounds of Formula (I) may be converted to their corresponding salts using methods known to one of ordinary skill in the art. For example, an amine of Formula (I) is treated with trifluoroacetic acid, HC1, or citric acid in a solvent such as Et ₂ 0, CFbCh, THF, MeOH, chloroform, or isopropanol to provide the corresponding salt form. Alternately, trifluoroacetic acid or formic acid salts are obtained as a result of reverse phase HPFC purification conditions. Cyrstalline forms of pharmaceutically acceptable salts of compounds of Formula (I) may be obtained in crystalline form by recrystallization from polar solvents (including mixtures of polar solvents and aqueous mixtures of polar solvents) or from non-polar solvents (including mixtures of non-polar solvents).

Where the compounds according to this present disclosure have at least one chiral center, they may accordingly exist as enantiomers. Where the compounds possess two or more chiral centers, they may additionally exist as diastereomers. It is to be understood that all such isomers and mixtures thereof are encompassed within the scope of the present disclosure.

Compounds prepared according to the schemes described above may be obtained as single forms, such as single enantiomers, by form-specific synthesis, or by resolution. Compounds prepared according to the schemes above may alternately be obtained as mixtures of various forms, such as racemic (1: 1) or non-racemic (not 1: 1) mixtures. Where racemic and non-racemic mixtures of enantiomers are obtained, single enantiomers may be isolated using conventional separation methods known to one of ordinary skill in the art, such as chiral chromatography, recrystallization, diastereomeric salt formation, derivatization into diastereomeric adducts, biotransformation, or enzymatic transformation. Where regioisomeric or diastereomeric mixtures are obtained, as applicable, single isomers may be separated using conventional methods such as chromatography or crystallization.

Examples

The following specific examples are provided to further illustrate the present disclosure and various preferred embodiments.

In obtaining the compounds described in the examples below and the corresponding analytical data, the following experimental and analytical protocols were followed unless otherwise indicated.

Unless otherwise stated, reaction mixtures were magnetically stirred at room temperature (rt) under a nitrogen atmosphere. Where solutions were“dried,” they were generally dried over a drying agent such as NaiSCfi or MgSCfi. Where mixtures, solutions, and extracts were“concentrated”, they were typically concentrated on a rotary evaporator under reduced pressure.

Normal-phase silica gel chromatography (FCC) was performed on silica gel (S1O2) using prepacked cartridges.

Preparative reverse-phase high performance liquid chromatography (RP HPLC) was performed on either:

METHOD A. A Gilson GX-281 semi-prep-HPLC with Phenomenex Synergi Cl8(l0pm, 150 x 25mm), or Boston Green ODS Cl8(5pm, 150 x 30mm), and mobile phase of 5-99% ACN in water (with

0.225%FA) over 10 min and then hold at 100% ACN for 2 min, at a flow rate of 25 mL/min.

or

METHOD B. A Gilson GX-281 semi-prep-HPLC with Phenomenex Synergi Cl8(l0pm, 150 x 25mm), or Boston Green ODS Cl8(5pm, 150 x 30mm), and mobile phase of 5-99% ACN in water(0. l%TFA) over 10 min and then hold at 100% ACN for 2 min, at a flow rate of 25 mL/min.

or METHOD C. A Gilson GX-281 semi-prep-HPLC with Phenomenex Synergi Cl8(l0pm, 150 x 25mm), or Boston Green ODS Cl8(5pm, 150 x 30mm), and mobile phase of 5-99% ACN in water(0.05%HCl) over 10 min and then hold at 100% ACN for 2 min, at a flow rate of 25 mL/min.

or

METHOD D. a Gilson GX-281 semi-prep-HPLC with Phenomenex Gemini C18 (lOpm, 150 x 25mm), AD(l0pm, 250mm x 30mm), or Waters XBridge C18 column (5pm, 150 x 30mm), mobile phase of 0- 99% ACN in water (with 0.05% ammonia hydroxide v/v) over 10 min and then hold at 100% ACN for 2 min, at a flow rate of 25 mL/min.

or

METHOD E. a Gilson GX-281 semi-prep-HPLC with Phenomenex Gemini C18 (lOpm, 150 x 25mm), or Waters XBridge Cl 8 column (5pm, 150 x 30mm), mobile phase of 5-99% ACN in water(l0mM

NH4HC03) over 10 min and then hold at 100% ACN for 2 min, at a flow rate of 25 mL/min.

Preparative supercritical fluid high performance liquid chromatography (SFC) was performed either on a Thar 80 Prep-SFC system, or Waters 80Q Prep-SFC system from Waters. The ABPR was set to lOObar to keep the CO2 in SF conditions, and the flow rate may verify according to the compound characteristics, with a flow rate ranging from 50g/min to 70g/min. The column temperature was ambient temperature

Mass spectra (MS) were obtained on a SHIMADZU LCMS-2020 MSD or Agilent l200\G6l 10A MSD using electrospray ionization (ESI) in positive mode unless otherwise indicated. Calculated (calcd.) mass corresponds to the exact mass.

Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectra were obtained on Bruker model AVIII 400 spectrometers. Definitions for multiplicity are as follows: s = singlet, d = doublet, t= triplet, q = quartet, m = multiplet, br = broad. It will be understood that for compounds comprising an exchangeable proton, said proton may or may not be visible on an NMR spectrum depending on the choice of solvent used for running the NMR spectrum and the concentration of the compound in the solution.

Chemical names were generated using ChemDraw Ultra 12.0, ChemDraw Ultra 14.0

(Cambridge Soft Corp., Cambridge, MA) or ACD/Name Version 10.01 (Advanced Chemistry).

Compounds designated as R* or S* are enantiopure compounds where the absolute configuration was not determined.

Intermediate 1 : (S)-6-methyl-3-(pyrimidin-2-yl)-4.5.6.7-tetrahvdroisoxazolor 4.3-c1pyridine.

Step A. (2S)-fer/-Butyl 2-mcthyl-4-o\o-5-(pyrimidinc-2-carbonyl (piperidine- 1 -carbowlatc. To a mixture of (S)-tert-butyl 2-methyl -4-oxopiperidine-l-carboxylate (5 g, 23.44 mmol) in THF (40 mL) was added LiHMDS (1 M, 46.88 mL) in one portion at 0 °C under N ₂ . The reaction mixture was stirred at 0 °C for 0.5 h, then methyl pyrimidine-2-carboxylate (5.50 g, 39.85 mmol) in THF (40 mL) was added into the solution at 0 °C and stirred at 15 °C for 4 hours. The reaction mixture was poured into aq. NH4CI (200 mL) and stirred for 1 min. The aqueous phase was extracted with ethyl acetate (200 mL/2). The organics layers were separated, washed with brine (100 mL/2). dried with anhydrous NaaSCL, fdtered and concentrated in vacuum. Purification (FCC, S1O2, Petroleum ether/Ethyl acetate=l0/l to 0: 1) afforded (2S)-tert-butyl 2-methyl-4-oxo-5-(pyrimidine-2-carbonyl)piperidine-l-carboxy late (5.5 g, 17.22 mmol, 73.47% yield) as a yellow oil. MS (ESI): mass ealed. for C16H21N3O4, 319.2; m/z found, 342.1 [M+Na] ⁺ .

Step B (S)-6-Methyl-3-(pyrimidin-2-yl)-4.5.6.7-tetrahvdroisoxazolo r4.3-clpyridine

To a solution of (2S)-tert-butyl 2-methyl-4-oxo-5-(pyrimidine-2-carbonyl)piperidine-l-carboxy late (0.5 g, 1.57 mmol) in EtOH (15 mL) was added hydroxylamine hydrochloride (587.51 mg, 8.45 mmol). The reaction mixture was stirred at 70 °C for 60 h. The reaction mixture was washed with EtOAc (15 mL><3). Then pH of the aqueous phase was adjust to 9 by aq NaOH(l M). The aq. layer was extracted with DCM (20 mL><3). The combined DCM layers were washed with brine (30 mL), dried over NarSCL, filtered and concentrated in vacuo. The residue was purified via RP HPLC(Condition D), following by separated via SFC (column: AD (250mm*30mm, lOpm); mobile phase: [0.1%NH3H2q MeOH]; B%: 50%-50%) to afford the title compound (Rt=4. l2l min, 60 mg, 76.80% yield, 96% purity) as yellow solid and (S)-6- methyl-3-(pyrimidin-2-yl)-4,5,6,7-tetrahydroisoxazolo[4,5-c] pyridine. MS (ESI): mass ealed. for C11H12N4O, 216.1; m/z found, 217.0 [M+l] ⁺ . ¾ NMR (400MHz, CDC1 ₃ ) d 8.87 (d, J= 4.8 Hz, 2H), 7.29 - 7.26 (m, 1H), 4.53 - 4.49 (m, 1H), 4.13 - 4.09 (m, 1H), 3.07 - 2.99 (m, 2H), 2.48 - 2.41 (m, 1H), 1.34 (d, J = 6.4 Hz, 3H).

Intermediate 2: (S)-6-Methyl-3-(pyrimidin-2-yl)-4.5.6.7-tetrahvdroisoxazolor 4.5-clpyridine.

The title compound was isolated by SFC from Intermediate 1, Step B: (retention time = 3.603 min, 50 mg, 64.00% yield, 96% purity). MS (ESI): mass calcd. for C ₁₁ H ₁₂ N ₄ O, 216.1; m/z found, 217.0 [M+l] ⁺ . ¾ NMR (400 MHz, CDCI ₃ ) d 8.86 (d, J= 4.8 Hz, 2H), 7.31 (t, J= 4.8 Hz, 1H), 4.32 - 4.28 (m, 1H), 4.12 - 4.03 (m, 1H), 3.16 - 3.05 (m, 1H), 2.96 - 2.86 (m, 1H), 2.49 - 2.42 (m, 1H), 1.34 (d, J= 6.4 Hz, 3H).

Intermediate 3 : ferZ-Butyl 7.7-dimethyl-3-(pyrimidin-2-yl)-6.7-dihvdroisoxazolor4.3-c1t )yridine-5(4H)- carboxylate.

Step A Butyl 3.3-dimethyl-4-oxo-5-(pyrimidine-2-carbonyl)piperidine-l-car boxylate. A solution of tert-butyl 3,3-dimethyl-4-oxo-piperidine-l-carboxylate (3 g, 13.20 mmol) in THF (30 mL) was added LiHMDS (1 M, 26.40 mL) at -78 °C. The reaction mixture was stirred for 0.5 h at -78 °C under N ₂ . Methyl pyrimidine-2 -carboxylate (3.10 g, 22.44 mmol) was added to the mixture at -78 °C under N ₂ . The mixture was stirred at 20 °C for 2 h under N ₂ atmosphere. The reaction was quenched with aqueous solution of NH4CI (80 mL) and then neutralized by dilute HC1 (1 N, 80 mL). The aqueous layer was extracted with EtOAc (40 mL X 3). The combined organic layers were dried over anhydrous NaiSCri. filtered and concentrated in vacuum. Purification (FCC, S1O2, Petroleum ether/Ethyl acetate= 100/1 to 3: 1) afforded the title compound (3.8 g, 11.25 mmol, 85.24% yield, 98.7% purity) as a yellow solid. MS (ESI): mass calcd. for C17H23N3O4, 333.2; m/z found, 356.1 [M+Na] ⁺ .

Step utyl7.7-dimethyl-3-(pyrimidin-2-yl)-6.7-dihvdroisoxazolol4.3 -c |pyridine-5(4H)-

carboxylate and /er/-Butyl7.7-dimethyl-3-(pyrimidin-2-vB-6.7-dihvdroisoxa zolol4.5-c|pyridine-5(4H)- carboxylate. A mixture of tert-butyl 3, 3 -dimethyl -4-oxo-5-(pyrimidine-2-carbonyl)piperidine-l- carboxylate (2.6 g, 7.80 mmol), AcONa (1.28 g, 15.60 mmol), XTLOH^HCl (1.08 g, 15.60 mmol) in EtOH (30 mL) was stirred at 60 °C for 16 hr. The reaction mixture was cooled and concentrated under reduced pressure. The residue was diluted with ethyl acetate (30 mL) and extracted with H2O (50 mL). The organic layers were separated, dried, filtered and concentrated under reduced pressure to afford 3 g crude product as a yellow solid which was used crude in the next step without further purification. To a cooled, 0 °C under N2, solution of crude product (3 g) in DCM (30 mL), was added TEA (1.31 g, 12.92 mmol, 1.80 mL), and MsCl (986.39 mg, 8.61 mmol, 666.48 pL). The reaction mixture was stirred at 25 °C for 2 h under N2. The reaction mixture was poured into ice-water (30 mL) and stirred for 1 min.

The aqueous phase was extracted with DCM (30 mL x 2). The combined organic layers were washed with brine (60 mL), separated, dried with anhydrous Na ₂ SC> ₄ , filtered and concentrated under reduced pressure. Purification (S1O2, Petroleum ether/Ethyl acetate=l00/l to 1: 1) afforded 1.9 g of a mixture of the title compounds. Purification (SFC (OD-3S_3_5_40_3ML Column: Chiralcel OD-3 100x4.6mm I.D., 3pm Mobile phase: methanol (0.05% DEA) in CO2 from 5% to 40% Flow rate: 3mL/min Wavelength: 220nm)) afforded the tile compound (tert-butyl 7,7-dimethyl-3-pyrimidin-2-yl-4,6-dihydroisoxazolo[4,3- c]pyridine-5-carboxylate, 256 mg, 16.38% yield, 91% purity) as a white solid; and tert-butyl 7,7- dimethyl-3-pyrimidin-2-yl-4,6-dihydroisoxazolo[4,5-c]pyridin e-5-carboxylate (1.52 g, 99% purity) as a white solid. MS (ESI): mass calcd. for C ₁₇ H ₂₂ N ₄ O ₃ , 330.2; m/z found, 353.1 [M+Na] ⁺ .

Step C. 7.7-Dimethyl-3-(pyrimidin-2-yl)-4.5.6.7-tetrahvdroisoxazolor 4.3-c1pyridine. To a solution of tert-butyl 7,7-dimethyl-3-pyrimidin-2-yl-4,6-dihydroisoxazolo[4,3-c]pyr idine-5-carboxylate (350 mg, 1.06 mmol, 1 eq) in DCM (4 mL) was added TFA (4.01 g, 35.15 mmol, 2.60 mL, 33.18 eq) with stirring at 30°C for 1 hours. The reaction mixture was concentrated under reduced pressure to afford the title compound as the TFA salt (391 mg) as yellow oil, which was used directly without further purification. MS (ESI): mass calcd. for C12H14N4O, 230.1; m/z found, 231.0 [M+H] ⁺ .

Intermediate 4: / -Butyl 7.7-dimethyl-3-(pyrimidin-2-vD-6.7-dihvdroisoxazolol4.5-c1py ridine-5

carboxylate.

The title compound was prepared in a manner analogous to Intermediate 3, Step C, using tert-butyl 7,7- dimethyl-3-pyrimidin-2-yl-4,6-dihydroisoxazolo[4,5-c]pyridin e-5-carboxylate (product from Intermediate 3, Step 2). The title compound was used crude without further purification. MS (ESI): mass calcd. for C ₁₂ H ₁₄ N ₄ O, 230.1; m/z found, 231.0 [M+H]+. Example 1: (S)-N-(3-Cvano-4-fluorophenyl)-6-methyl-3-

(pyrimidin-2-yl)-6.7-dihvdroisoxazolor4.3-c1pyridine-5(4H )-carboxamide.

To a solution of (S)-6-methyl-3-(pyrimidin-2-yl)-4,5,6,7-tetrahydroisoxazolo [4,3-c]pyridine (Intermediate 1, 50 mg, 217.35 mihoΐ) in DCM (5 mL) was added TEA (116.99 mg, 1.16 mmol, 160.92 pL) and phenyl (3-cyano-4-fluorophenyl)carbamate (56.85 mg, 219.66 pmol). The reaction mixture was stirred at 20 °C for 3 h. The reaction mixture was concentrated under reduced pressure. Purification RP HPLC(condition A) afforded the title compound (55.29 mg, 61.97% yield, 98.05% purity) as a white solid. MS (ESI): mass calcd. for CigHisFNeCE, 378.1; m/z found, 379.1 [M+H] ⁺ .‘H NMR (400MHZ, CDCE) d 8.93 (d, J= 4.8 Hz, 2H), 7.74 - 7.72(m, 1H), 7.70 -7.65 (m, 1H), 7.36 (t, J= 4.8 Hz, 1H), 7.18 (t, .7= 8.8 Hz, 1H), 6.63 (s, 1H), 5.19 - 5.15 (m, 1H), 5.13 - 5.05 (m, 1H), 4.66 - 4.62 (d, 1H), 3.18 - 3.10 (m, 1H), 3.02 - 2.95 (m, 1H), 1.26 (d, .7= 7.2 Hz, 3H).

Example 2: (S)-N -(2-(Difluoromethyl)-3 -fluorot)yridin-4-yl)-6-methyl-3-(t)yrimidin-2-yl)-6.7- dihydroisoxazolo G4.3 -clpyridine-5 (4H)-carboxamide .

The title compound was prepared in a manner analogous to Example 1, substituting phenyl (2- (difluoromethyl)-3-fluoropyridin-4-yl)carbamate for phenyl (3-cyano-4-fluorophenyl)carbamate. MS (ESI): mass calcd. for CisHisFsNgCE, 404.1; m/z found, 405.1 [M+H] ⁺ . Ή NMR (400MHz. CDCI3) d 8.94 (d, J= 4.8 Hz, 2H), 8.38 - 8.34 (m, 2H), 7.37 (t, J= 4.8 Hz, 1H), 7.13 ( d, J= 4.0 Hz, 1H), 6.91 -

6.61 (m, 1H), 5.27 - 5.20 (m, 1H), 5.25 -5.21 (m, 1H), 5.11 - 5.08(m, 1H), 4.73 -4.69 (m, 1H), 4.75 - 4.68 (m, 1H), 3.20 - 3.11 (m, 1H), 3.06 - 2.98 (m, 1H), 1.29 (d, .7= 7.2 Hz, 3H).

Example 3: (S)-N-(4-Fluoro-3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)-6-methyl-3-(pyrim idin-2-yl)-6.7- dihvdroisoxazolo 14 3 -clpyridine-5 -carboxamide .

The title compound was prepared in a manner analogous to Example 1, substituting phenyl (4-fluoro-3- (trifluoromethyl)phenyl)carbamate for phenyl (3-cyano-4-fluorophenyl)carbamate. MS (ESI): mass calcd. for C19H15F4N5O2, 421.1 ; m/z found, 422.1 [M+H] ⁺ . ¾ NMR (400MHz, CDCE) d 8.93 (d, J= 4.8 Hz, 2H), 7.68 - 7.60 (m, 2H), 7.36 (t, J= 4.8 Hz, 1H), 7.16 (t, J= 9.2 Hz, 1H), 6.65 (s, 1H), 5.21 -5.17 (m, 1H), 5.12 - 5.06 (m, 1H), 4.65 - 4.61 (m, 1H), 3.18 - 3.10 (m, 1H), 3.02 - 2.94 (m, 1H), 1.25 (d, J =

6.8 Hz, 3H).

Example 4: (S)-N-(2-Bromo-3-fluorot)yridin-4-yl)-6-methyl-3-(t)yrimidin -2-yl)-6.7- dihydroisoxazolo G4.3 -clpyridine-5 (4H)-carboxamide .

The title compound was prepared in a manner analogous to Example 1, substituting phenyl (2-bromo-3- fluoropyridin-4-yl)carbamate for phenyl (3-cyano-4-fluorophenyl)carbamate. MS (ESI): mass calcd. for CnHuBrFNgCE, 432.0; m/z found, 433.0/435.0 [M+H] ⁺ . ¾ NMR (400MHz, CDCl ₃ ) d 8.94 (d, J= 4.8 Hz, 2H), 8.23 - 8.16 (m, 1H), 8.10 (d, J= 5.2 Hz, 1H), 7.37 (t, J= 4.8 Hz, 1H), 7.04 (s, 1H), 5.24 - 5.20 (m, 1H), 5.13 - 5.04 (m, 1H), 4.72 - 4.68 (m, 1H), 3.20 - 3.12 (m, 1H), 3.05 - 2.97 (m, 1H), 1.28 (d, J = 7.2 Hz, 3H).

Example 5 : (S)-N-(3-Cvano-4-fluorophenyl)-6-methyl-3-(pyrimidin-2-yl )-6.7-dihvdroisoxazolol4.5- c lpyridine-5(4H)-carboxamide.

The title compound was prepared in a manner analogous to Example 1, substituting (S)-6-methyl-3- (pyrimidin-2-yl)-4,5,6,7-tetrahydroisoxazolo[4,5-c] pyridine (Intermediate 2) for (S)-6-methyl-3- (pyrimidin-2-yl)-4,5,6,7-tetrahydroisoxazolo [4,3-c]pyridine (Intermediate 1). MS (ESI): mass calcd. for C19H15FN6O2, 378.1; m/z found, 379.1 [M+H] ⁺ .‘H NMR (400MHZ, CDCI3) d 8.92 (d, J= 4.8 Hz, 2H), 7.73 - 7.71 (m 1H), 7.70 - 7.65 (m, 1H), 7.40 (t, J= 4.8 Hz, 1H), 7.17 (t, J= 8.8 Hz, 1H), 6.74 (s, 1H), 5.20 - 5.15 (m, 1H), 5.06 - 5.02 (m, 1H), 4.54 - 4.50 (m, 1H), 3.22 - 3.17 (m, 1H), 2.85 - 2.81 (m, 1H), 1.27 (d, .7= 6.8 Hz, 3H).

Example 6: (S)-N-(2-(Difluoromethyl)-3-fluorot)yridin-4-yl)-6-methyl-3- (t)yrimidin-2-yl)-6.7- dihvdroisoxazolor4.5-c1pyridine-5(4H)-carboxamide

The title compound was prepared in a manner analogous to Example 1, using (S)-6-methyl-3-(pyrimidin- 2-yl)-4,5,6,7-tetrahydroisoxazolo[4,5-c]pyridine (Intermediate 2) and phenyl (2-(difluoromethyl)-3- fluoropyridin-4-yl)carbamate. MS (ESI): mass calcd. for C18H15F3N6O2, 404.1; m/z found, 405.1 [M+H] ⁺ . ‘H NMR (400MHz, CDCI3) d 8.94 (d, J= 4.8 Hz, 2H), 8.96 - 8.92 (m, 1H), 8.37 - 8.32 (m, 2H), 7.41 (t, J = 4.8 Hz, 1H), 7.14 (d, J= 4.0 Hz, 1H), 6.90 - 6.61 (m, 1H), 5.22 - 5.08 (m, 2H), 4.62 - 4.58 (m, 1H),

4.64 - 4.56 (m, 1H), 3.26 - 3.20 (m, 1H), 2.90 - 2.86 (m, 1H), 2.93 - 2.84 (m, 1H), 1.31 (d, .7= 6.8 Hz, 3H).

Example 7: (S)-N-(4-Fluoro-3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)-6-methyl-3-(pyrim idin-2-yl)-6.7- dihydroisoxazolo G4.5 -clpyridine-5 (4H)-carboxamide .

The title compound was prepared in a manner analogous to Example 1, using (S)-6-methyl-3-(pyrimidin- 2-yl)-4,5,6,7-tetrahydroisoxazolo[4,5-c]pyridine (Intermediate 2) with phenyl (4-fluoro-3- (trifluoromethyl)phenyl)carbamate. MS (ESI): mass calcd. for C19H15F4N5O2, 421.1; m/z found, 422.1 [M+H] ⁺ . ¾ NMR (400MHz, CDCI3) d 8.93 (d, J= 4.8 Hz, 2H), 7.67 - 7.60 (m, 2H), 7.41 (t, J= 4.8 Hz, 1H), 7.16 (t, J= 9.2 Hz, 1H), 6.62 (s, 1H), 5.20 - 5.14 (m, 1H), 5.07 - 5.03 (m, 1H), 4.55 - 4.51 (m, 1H), 3.24 - 3.18 (m, 1H), 2.86 - 2.82 (m, 1H), 1.27 (d, .7= 6.8 Hz, 3H).

Example 8: (S)-N-(2-Bromo-3-fluoropyridin-4-yl)-6-methyl-3-(pyrimidin-2 -yl)-6.7- dihydroisoxazolo G4.5 -clpyridine-5 (4H)-carboxamide .

The title compound was prepared in a manner analogous to Example 1, usings (S)-6-methyl-3-(pyrimidin- 2-yl)-4,5,6,7-tetrahydroisoxazolo[4,5-c] pyridine (Intermediate 2) and phenyl (2-bromo-3-fluoropyridin- 4-yl)carbamate. MS (ESI): mass calcd. for CnH^BrENgCE, 432.0; m/z found, 433.0/435.0 [M+H] ⁺ . ¾ NMR (400MHz, CDCE) d 8.94 (d, .7= 4.8 Hz, 2H), 8.21 - 8.15 (m, 1H), 8.10 (d, J= 5.4 Hz, 1H), 7.41 (t, J = 4.8 Hz, 1H), 7.06 (br s, 1H), 5.20 - 5.14 (m, 1H), 5.12 - 5.08 (m, 1H), 4.61 - 4.57 (m, 1H), 3.25 - 3.20 (m, 1H), 2.89 - 2.85 (m, 1H), 1.30 (d, J= 6.8 Hz, 3H).

Example 9: N-(3-Cvano-4-fluorophenyl)-7.7-dimethyl-3-(pyrimidin-2-yl)-6 .7-dihvdroisoxazolor4.3- c1pyridine-5(4H)-carboxamide.

The title compound was prepared in a manner analogous to Example 1, using 7,7-dimethyl-3-(pyrimidin- 2-yl)-4,5,6,7-tetrahydroisoxazolo[4,3-c]pyridine (Intermediate 3) and phenyl (3-cyano-4- fluorophenyl)carbamate. MS (ESI): mass calcd. for C20H17FN6O2, 392.1; m/z found, 393. l [M+H] ⁺ . ' H NMR (400MHz, CDCE) d 8.94 (s, 1H), 7.81 - 7.67 (m, 2H), 7.36 (t, J= 4.9 Hz, 1H), 7.23 - 7.14 (m, 1H), 6.70 (s, 1H), 4.97 (s, 2H), 3.62 (s, 2H), 1.52 (s, 6H).

Example 10: N-(4-Fhioro-3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)-7.7-dimethyl-3-(pyrim idin-2-yl)-6.7- dihvdroisoxazolo G4.3 -clpyridine-5 (4H)-carboxamide .

The title compound was prepared in a manner analogous to Example 1, using 7,7-dimethyl-3-(pyrimidin- 2-yl)-4,5,6,7-tetrahydroisoxazolo[4,3-c]pyridine (Intermediate C) and phenyl (4-fluoro-3- (trifluoromethyl) phenyl) carbamate. MS (ESI): mass calcd. for C20H17F4N5O2, 435.1; m/z found, 436.1. [M+H] ⁺ . ¹ HNMR (400MHz, CDCI3) d 8.94 (d, J= 4.9 Hz, 2H), 7.72 - 7.62 (m, 2H), 7.36 (t, J= 4.9 Hz, 1H), 7.18 (t, .7=9.3 Hz, 1H), 6.66 (s, 1H), 4.97 (s, 2H), 3.62 (s, 2H), 1.52 (s, 6H).

Example 11 : N-(2-(DifluoromethvD-3-fluoropyridin-4-yl)-7.7-dimethyl-3-(p yrimidin-2-yl)-6.7- dihvdroisoxazolo G4 3 -clpyridine-5 (4H)-carboxamide .

The title compound was prepared in a manner analogous to Example 1, using 7,7-dimethyl-3-(pyrimidin- 2-yl)-4,5,6,7-tetrahydroisoxazolo[4,3-c]pyridine (Intermediate 3) and phenyl (2-(difluoromethyl)-3- fluoropyridin-4-yl)carbamate. MS (ESI): mass calcd. for C19H17F3N6O2, 418.1; m/z found, 419.1 [M+H] ⁺ . ¹ HNMR (400MHz, CDCI3) d 8.94 (d, J= 4.9 Hz, 2H), 8.45 - 8.34 (m, 2H), 7.37 (t, J= 4.9 Hz, 1H), 7.17 (br d, .7=4.1 Hz, 1H), 6.92 - 6.60 (m, 1H), 5.03 (s, 2H), 3.64 (s, 2H), 1.53 (s, 6H).

Example 12: N-(2-Bromo-3-fluoropyridin-4-yl)-7.7-dimethyl-3-(pyrimidin-2 -yl)-6.7- dihydroisoxazolo G4.3 -clpyridine-5 (4H)-carboxamide .

The title compound was prepared in a manner analogous to Example 1, using 7,7-dimethyl-3-(pyrimidin- 2-yl)-4,5,6,7-tetrahydroisoxazolo[4,3-c]pyridine (Intermediate 3) and phenyl (2-bromo-3-fluoropyridin-4- yl)carbamate. MS (ESI): mass calcd. for CisHigBrFNgCE, 446. l;m/z found, 447.0/449.0.[M+H] ⁺ .

1HNMR (400MHz, CDCE) d 8.94 (d, J= 4.9 Hz, 2H), 8.26 - 8.08 (m, 2H), 7.37 (t, J= 5.0 Hz, 1H), 7.09 (brd, J= 4.0 H _z , IH), 5.02 (s, 2H), 3.63 (s, 2H), 1.53 (s, 6H).

Example 13: N-(3-Cvano-4-fluorophenyl)-7.7-dimethyl-3-(pyrimidin-2-yl)-6 .7-dihvdroisoxazolor4.5- c1pyridine-5(4H)-carboxamide.

The title compound was prepared in a manner analogous to Example 1, using 7,7-dimethyl-3-(pyrimidin- 2-yl)-4,5,6,7-tetrahydroisoxazolo[4,5-c] pyridine to react (Intermediate 4) and phenyl (3-cyano-4- fluorophenyl)carbamate. MS (ESI): mass calcd. for C20H17FN6O2, 392.1; m/z found, 393. l .[M+H] ⁺ . ¹ H NMR (400MHz, CDCE) d 8.92 (t, J= 4.2 Hz, 2H), 7.82 - 7.65 (m, 2H), 7.41 (t, J= 4.6 Hz, 1H), 7.18 (t,

J= 8.6 Hz, 1H), 6.89 - 6.73 (m, 1H), 4.82 (s, 2H), 3.67 (s, 2H), 1.47 (s, 6H).

Example 14: N-(4-Fluoro-3-(trifluoromethylk ₎ henvD-7.7-dimethyl-3-(pyrimidin-2-vD-6.7- dihvdroisoxazolo G4.5 -clpyridine-5 (4H)-carboxamide .

The title compound was prepared in a manner analogous to Example 1, using 7,7-dimethyl-3-(pyrimidin- 2-yl)-4,5,6,7-tetrahydroisoxazolo[4,5-c]pyridine (Intermediate 4) and phenyl (4-fluoro-3- (trifluoromethyl)phenyl)carbamate. MS (ESI): mass calcd. for C ₂₀ H ₁₇ F ₄ N ₅ O ₂ , 435.1; m/z found,

436.1. [M+H] ⁺ . ¹ HNMR (400MHz, CDCI ₃ ) d 8.93 (d, J= 4.9 Hz, 2H), 7.70 - 7.61 (m, 2H), 7.40 (t, J= 4.9

Hz, 1H), 7.25 - 7.08 (m, 1H), 6.69 (s, 1H), 4.83 (s, 2H), 3.67 (s, 2H), 1.47 (s, 6H).

Example 15: N-(2-(Difluoromethyl)-3-fluoropyridin-4-vD-7.7-dimethyl-3-(p yrimidin-2-yl)-6.7- dihydroisoxazolo G4.5 -clpyridine-5 (4H)-carboxamide .

The title compound was prepared in a manner analogous to Example 1, using 7,7-dimethyl-3-(pyrimidin- 2-yl)-4,5,6,7-tetrahydroisoxazolo[4,5-c]pyridine (Intermediate 4) and phenyl (2-(difluoromethyl)-3- fluoropyridin-4-yl)carbamate .MS (ESI): mass calcd. for C19H17F3N6O2, 418.1; m/z found, 419.1 [M+H] ⁺ . ¹ HNMR (400MHz, CDCI ₃ ) d 8.94 (d, J= 4.9 Hz, 2H), 8.42-8.35 (m, 2H), 7.42 (t, J= 4.9 Hz, 1H), 7.28 (s, 1H), 7.18 (br d, J=43 Hz, 1H), 6.93 - 6.59 (m, 1H), 4.90 (s, 2H), 3.69 (s, 2H), 1.49 (s, 6H).

Example 16: N-(2-Bromo-3-fluoropyridin-4-yl)-7.7-dimethyl-3-(pyrimidin-2 -yl)-6.7- dihydroisoxazolo G4.5 -clpyridine-5 (4H)-carboxamide .

The title compound was prepared in a manner analogous to Example 1, using 7,7-dimethyl-3-pyrimidin- 2-yl-5,6-dihydro-4H-isoxazolo[4,5-c]pyridine (Intermediate 4) and phenyl N-(2-bromo-3-fluoro-4- pyridyl)carbamate. MS (ESI): mass calcd. for CixHir.BrFNr.CE. 446.1; m/z found, 447.0/449.0 [M+H] ⁺ . ‘H NMR (400MHz CDCE) d 8.93 (d, J= 5.0 Hz, 2H), 8.23 - 8.18 (m, 1H), 8.13 - 8.08 (m, 1H), 7.42 - 7.38 (m, 1H), 7.10 - 7.05 (m, 1H), 4.93 - 4.85 (m, 2H), 3.67 (s, 2H), 1.47 (s, 6H).

Biological Data

HBV Replication Inhibition Assay

HBV replication inhibition by the disclosed compounds were determined in cells infected or transfected with HBV or cells with stably integrated HBV, such as HepG2.2.15 cells (Sells et al. 1987). In this example, HepG2.2.l5 cells were maintained in cell culture medium containing 10% fetal bovine serum (FBS), Geneticin, L-glutamine, penicillin and streptomycin. HepG2.2.l5 cells were seeded in 96-well plates at a density of 40,000 cells/well and were treated with serially diluted compounds at a final DMSO concentration of 0.5% either alone or in combination by adding drugs in a checker box format. Cells were incubated with compounds for three days, after which medium was removed and fresh medium containing compounds was added to cells and incubated for another three days. At day 6, supernatant was removed and treated with DNase at 37 °C for 60 minutes, followed by enzyme inactivation at 75 °C for 15 minutes. Encapsidated HBV DNA was released from the virions and covalently linked HBV polymerase by incubating in lysis buffer (Aflymetrix QS0010) containing 2.5 pg proteinase K at 50 °C for 40 minutes. HBV DNA was denatured by addition of 0.2 M NaOH and detected using a branched DNA (BDNA) QuantiGene assay kit according to manufacturer recommendation (Affymetrix). HBV DNA levels were also quantified using qPCR, based on amplification of encapsidated HBV DNA extraction with QuickExtraction Solution (Epicentre Biotechnologies) and amplification of HBV DNA using HBV specific PCR probes that can hybridize to HBV DNA and a fluorescently labeled probe for quantitation. In addition, cell viability of HepG2.2.15 cells incubated with test compounds alone or in combination was determined by using CellTitre-Glo reagent according to the manufacturer protocol (Promega). The mean background signal from wells containing only culture medium was subtracted from all other samples, and percent inhibition at each compound concentration was calculated by normalizing to signals from HepG2.2.l5 cells treated with 0.5% DMSO using equation El.

El: % inhibition = (DMSOave - Xi)/DMSOave x 100% where DMSOave is the mean signal calculated from the wells that were treated with DMSO control (0% inhibition control) and Xi is the signal measured from the individual wells. EC50 values, effective concentrations that achieved 50% inhibitory effect, were determined by non-linear fitting using Graphpad Prism software (San Diego, CA) and equation E2.

E2: Y = Ymin + (Ymax - Ymin) / (1 + 10(LogEC50-X) x HillSlope) where Y represents percent inhibition values and X represents the logarithm of compound concentrations.

Selected disclosed compounds were assayed in the HBV replication assay (BDNA assay), as described above, and a representative group of these active compounds is shown in Table 3. Table 3 shows EC ₅₀ values obtained by the BDNA assay for a group of select compounds. In Table 3,“A” represents 1 nM < EC ₅₀ < 100 nM;“B” represents 100 nM < EC ₅₀ < 1,000 nM; and“C” represents 1,000 nM < EC ₅ o < 10,000 nM.

Table 3. Activity in BDNA-assay (EC50)

The disclosures of each and every patent, patent application, and publication cited herein are hereby incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

While the present disclosure has been disclosed with reference to specific embodiments, it is apparent that other embodiments and variations of this present disclosure may be devised by others skilled in the art without departing from the true spirit and scope of the present disclosure. The appended claims are intended to be construed to include all such embodiments and equivalent variations.