Victoria C, Schulz G, Klöhn M, Weber S, Holicki CM, Brüggemann Y, Becker M, Gerold G, Eiden M, Groschup MH, Steinmann E, and Kirschning A
The synthesis of a library of halogenated rocaglate derivatives belonging to the flavagline class of natural products, of which silvestrol is the most prominent example, is reported. Their antiviral activity and cytotoxicity profile against a wide range of pathogenic viruses, including hepatitis E, Chikungunya, Rift Valley Fever virus and SARS-CoV-2, were determined. The incorporation of halogen substituents at positions 4', 6 and 8 was shown to have a significant effect on the antiviral activity of rocaglates, some of which even showed enhanced activity compared to CR-31-B and silvestrol.