Integrating Molecular Dynamics Simulation-Driven Computational Validation and In Vitro Biological Assessment of Pteridin-7(8 H )-one-Thiadiazole Hybrids Derivatives as Effective SARS-CoV-2 Main Protease Inhibitors

SARS-CoV-2 has caused a global health crisis, and the Main Protease (M pro ) is a proven pharmaceutical target. The current study presents an approach to combating disease by synthesizing a series of Pteridin-7(8H)-one–Based Thiadiazole Hybrids as potential SARS-CoV-2 M pro inhibitors. The compounds prepared were structurally confirmed using 1 H and 13 C NMR spectroscopy and evaluated for enzyme inhibition. The evaluation revealed a broad spectrum of inhibitory potency, with IC 50 values ranging from 0.037 μM to 63.83 μM. Remarkably, compounds 11h (IC 50 = 0.037 μM), 11c (IC 50 = 0.048 μM), and 11m (IC 50 = 0.078 μM) demonstrated superior or comparable inhibitory potency relative to that of the reference inhibitor Nirmatrelvir (IC 50 = 0.059 μM). Molecular docking investigations demonstrated that these Pteridin-7(8H)-one–Based Thiadiazole Hybrids effectively filled the M pro active site sub-pocket via stable hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic contacts, allowing for catalytic dyad engagement (CIS145/HIS41) and pocket flexibility. Additionally, DFT calculations and ADMET analyses of the most potent compounds, together with a representative comparative analogue (11j), revealed favorable electronic behavior and suitable pharmacokinetic properties, supporting their potential for further optimization. Overall, these findings identify Pteridin-7(8H)-one–Based Thiadiazole Hybrids as potential SARS-CoV-2 M pro inhibitors.