Methods and compositions for targeting PD-l1

Abstract

The present disclosure related to compounds that can be useful as inhibitors of PD-1, PD-Ll or the PD-1 / PD-Ll interaction. Also disclosed herein are pharmaceutical compositions of that can include a compound as described herein, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and uses of or methods of using a compound as described herein, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, for the treatment of PD-L1 related diseases including, but not limited to, liver diseases, cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, viral diseases, or hepatitis B.

Description

METHODS AND COMPOSITIONS FOR TARGETING PD-L1INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE TO PRIORITY APPLICATIONS

[0001] Any and all applications for which a foreign or domestic priority claim is identified, for example, in the Application Data Sheet or Request as filed with the present application, are hereby incorporated by reference under 37 CFR 1.57, and Rules 4.18 and 20.6, including U.S. Provisional Application Nos. 63 / 568,984, filed March 22, 2024 and 63 / 670,551, filed July 12, 2024, each of which is hereby expressly incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.FIELD

[0002] The present application relates to the fields of chemistry, biochemistry, molecular biology and medicine. The present disclosure relates to compounds that can be useful as inhibitors of PD-1, PD-L1 and / or the PD-1 / PD-L1 interaction. Also disclosed herein are pharmaceutical compositions of compounds described herein and uses of or methods of using the compounds for the treatment of PD-L1 related diseases including, but not limited to, liver diseases, cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, viral diseases, or hepatitis B.BACKGROUND

[0003] The programmed cell death 1 (PD-1) immune checkpoint expressed on the surface of activated CD4+and CD8+T cells controls an inhibitory mechanism to prevent autoimmunity. Engagement of PD-1 by programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) expressed on the multitude of cell types, including macrophages, dendritic cells, mast cells as well as cancer cells induces T cell exhaustion resulting in reduction or loss of effector cytokine production (e.g. IL-2, TNF-a, IFN-y) and upregulation of other inhibitory receptors and immune checkpoints (e.g. CTLA-4, LAG-3, and BTLA), or T cell apoptosis. High expression of PD- L1 is exhibited by many types of cancers to escape tumor immune surveillance and has been associated with poorer prognosis. PD-1 -mediated immunosuppression is also linked to some viral infections, such as hepatitis B. There is an ongoing need for PD-1 / PD-L1 therapies and improvements thereof for the treatment of disease.SUMMARY

[0004] Some embodiments disclosed herein relate to a compound as described herein, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.

[0005] Some embodiments disclosed herein relate to a pharmaceutical composition that can contain an effective amount of a compound disclosed herein, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.

[0006] Some embodiments described herein relate to a method of treating an HBV and / or HDV infection that can include administering to a subject identified as suffering from the HBV and / or HDV infection an effective amount of a compound, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, as described herein, or a pharmaceutical composition that includes an effective amount of a compound, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, as described herein. Other embodiments described herein relate to a compound, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, as described herein, or a pharmaceutical composition that includes an effective amount of a compound, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, as described herein for the use of treating an HBV and / or HDV infection.

[0007] Some embodiments disclosed herein relate to a method of inhibiting replication of HBV and / or HDV that can include contacting a cell infected with the HBV and / or HDV with an effective amount of a compound, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, as described herein, or a pharmaceutical composition that includes an effective amount of a compound, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, as described herein. Other embodiments described herein relate to a compound, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, as described herein, or a pharmaceutical composition that includes an effective amount of a compound, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, as described herein for the use of inhibiting the replication of HBV and / or HDV.

[0008] These are other embodiments are described in greater detail below.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0009] Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common form of liver cancer. HCC can be caused by a variety of conditions, such as alcohol consumption, cirrhosis, and viral infections that cause hepatitis, such as hepatitis B virus, hepatitis C virus, and hepatitis D virus. The inflammation, fibrosis, and cirrhosis linked with these conditions can inducemalignancies in affected liver cells. HCC has relatively poor prognosis, with a five-year survival rate of about 30%, depending on if full surgical resection of the tumor is possible.

[0010] For early disease, surgical resection is used. However, most HCC are identified at later stages because of difficulties in diagnosing. Upon late-stage diagnosis, the tumors are unresectable, and most patients are given systemic therapies. The current standard of care in front line are multi-kinase inhibitors (including, for example, sorafenib and / or lenvatinib). Most patients are refractory or relapse from these treatments and undergo second line therapies that have anti-angiogenic agents (including, for example, Regorafinib, Cabozantinib, and / or Ramicirumab) or immune checkpoint inhibitors (including, for example, nivolumab and / or pembrolizumab). However, most patients do not respond to first and second therapies, and the clinical benefit is poor, with overall survival not exceeding one year. In addition, biomarker driven therapies are lacking. Thus, there is a need to develop more tolerable and efficacious therapies for the treatment of HCC and related liver disorders.

[0011] HBV is a partially double-stranded circular DNA of about 3.2 kilobase (kb) pairs, and is classified into eight genotypes, A to H. The HBV replication pathway has been studied in great detail. One part of replication includes the formation of the covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) form. The presence of the cccDNA gives rise to the risk of viral reemergence throughout the life of the host organism. HBV carriers can transmit the disease for many years. An estimated 300 million people are living with hepatitis B virus infection, and it is estimated that over 750,000 people worldwide die of hepatitis B each year. In addition, immunosuppressed individuals or individuals undergoing chemotherapy are especially at risk for reactivation of an HBV infection. HBV can be acute and / or chronic. Acute HBV infection can be either asymptomatic or present with symptomatic acute hepatitis.

[0012] HBV can be transmitted by blood, semen, and / or another body fluid. This can occur through direct blood-to-blood contact, unprotected sex, sharing of needles, and from an infected mother to her baby during the delivery process. The HBV surface antigen (HBsAg) is most frequently used to screen for the presence of this infection. Currently available medications do not cure HBV and / or HDV infection. Rather, the medications suppress replication of the virus.

[0013] The hepatitis D virus (HDV) is a DNA virus, also in the Hepadnaviridae family of viruses. HDV can propagate only in the presence of HBV. The routes of transmissionof HDV are similar to those for HBV. Transmission of HDV can occur either via simultaneous infection with HBV (coinfection) or in addition to chronic hepatitis B or hepatitis B carrier state (superinfection). Both superinfection and coinfection with HDV results in more severe complications compared to infection with HBV alone. These complications include a greater likelihood of experiencing liver failure in acute infections and a rapid progression to liver cirrhosis, with an increased risk of developing liver cancer in chronic infections. In combination with hepatitis B, hepatitis D has the highest fatality rate of all the hepatitis infections, at 20%. There is currently no cure or vaccine for hepatitis D.

[0014] Programmed cell death 1, or programmed death 1 (PD-1) is a 268 amino acid long type I transmembrane protein found as a surface marker on T cells and other immune cells. As an immune checkpoint, PD-1 serves to negatively regulate immune responses to prevent autoimmune disorder. PD-1 protein (NCBI accession number NP 005009.2) is expressed from the cluster of differentiation 279 (CD279) gene (NCBI accession number NG_012110.1) or mRNA transcript (NCBI accession number NM_005018.3). In some preferred embodiments, PD-1 is the human PD-1 protein, and CD279 is the human CD279 transcript or gene on chromosome 2. It should be understood that a person with ordinary skill in the art would view the terms PD-1 and CD279 as often nominally interchangeable when considering the nucleic acid (DNA or RNA) or corresponding translated protein, or the sequences thereof.

[0015] Programmed cell death-ligand 1, or programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1), also known as B7 homolog 1 (B7-H1) is 272 amino acid long type I transmembrane protein found as a surface marker on many different cell types. PD-L1 is a major ligand of PD-1 and results in inhibition of T cell cytotoxicity and cytokine production. Cancer cells such as HCC cells take advantage of this immune checkpoint by upregulating PD-L1 expression, resulting in dysfunctional anti-tumor immunity by proximal T cells. Viruses also have been observed to modulate the PD-1 / PD-L1 pathway to inhibit immune host response. Hepatitis B virus has been shown to upregulate PD-L1 in infected hepatocytes, and PD-1 in associated T cells. PD- L1 protein (NCBI accession number NP 054862.1) is expressed from the cluster of differentiation 274 (CD274) transcript (NCBI accession number NM_014143.4). In some preferred embodiments, PD-L1 is the human PD-L1 protein, and CD274 is the human CD274 transcript or gene on chromosome 9. It should be understood that a person with ordinary skillin the art would view the terms PD-L1 and CD274 as often nominally interchangeable when considering the nucleic acid (DNA or RNA) or corresponding translated protein, or the sequences thereof.Definitions

[0016] Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as is commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. All patents, applications, published applications and other publications referenced herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety unless stated otherwise. To the extent publications and patents or patent applications incorporated by reference contradict the disclosure contained in the specification, the specification is intended to supersede and / or take precedence over any such contradictory material. In the event that there are a plurality of definitions for a term herein, those in this section prevail unless stated otherwise.

[0017] As used herein, “Ca to Cb”, “Ca-Cb” or “Ca-b” in which “a” and “b” are integers refer to the number of carbon atoms in an alkyl, alkenyl or alkynyl group, or the number of carbon atoms in the ring of a cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, aryl, heteroaryl or heterocyclyl group. That is, the alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, ring of the cycloalkyl, ring of the cycloalkenyl, ring of the aryl, ring of the heteroaryl or ring of the heterocyclyl can contain from “a” to “b”, inclusive, carbon atoms. Thus, for example, a “Ci to C4 alkyl” group refers to all alkyl groups having from 1 to 4 carbons, that is, CH3-, CH3CH2-, CH3CH2CH2-, (CIU^CH-, CH3CH2CH2CH2-, CH3CH2CH(CH3)- and (CH3)3C-. If no “a” and “b” are designated with regard to an alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, cycloalkyl cycloalkenyl, aryl, heteroaryl or heterocyclyl group, the broadest range described in these definitions is to be assumed.

[0018] As used herein, “alkyl” refers to a straight or branched hydrocarbon chain that comprises a fully saturated (no double or triple bonds) hydrocarbon group. The alkyl group may have 1 to 20 carbon atoms (whenever it appears herein, a numerical range such as “1 to 20” refers to each integer in the given range; e.g., “1 to 20 carbon atoms” means that the alkyl group may consist of 1 carbon atom, 2 carbon atoms, 3 carbon atoms, etc., up to and including 20 carbon atoms, although the present definition also covers the occurrence of the term “alkyl” where no numerical range is designated). The alkyl group may also be a medium size alkyl having 1 to 10 carbon atoms. The alkyl group could also be a lower alkyl having 1 to 6 carbonatoms. The alkyl group of the compounds may be designated as “C1-C4 alkyl” or similar designations. By way of example only, “C1-C4 alkyl” indicates that there are one to four carbon atoms in the alkyl chain, i.e., the alkyl chain is selected from methyl, ethyl, propyl, iso-propyl, n-butyl, iso-butyl, sec-butyl and t-butyl. Typical alkyl groups include, but are in no way limited to, methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, butyl, isobutyl, tertiary butyl, pentyl and hexyl. The alkyl group may be substituted or unsubstituted.

[0019] As used herein, “alkenyl” refers to an alkyl group that contains in the straight or branched hydrocarbon chain one or more double bonds. The length of an alkenyl can vary. For example, the alkenyl can be a C2-4 alkenyl, C2-6 alkenyl or C2-8 alkenyl. Examples of alkenyl groups include allenyl, vinylmethyl and ethenyl. An alkenyl group may be unsubstituted or substituted.

[0020] As used herein, “alkynyl” refers to an alkyl group that contains in the straight or branched hydrocarbon chain one or more triple bonds. The length of an alkynyl can vary. For example, the alkynyl can be a C2-4 alkynyl, C2-6 alkynyl or C2-8 alkynyl. Examples of alkynyls include ethynyl and propynyl. An alkynyl group may be unsubstituted or substituted.

[0021] As used herein, “cycloalkyl” refers to a completely saturated (no double or triple bonds) mono- or multi- cyclic hydrocarbon ring system. When composed of two or more rings, the rings may be joined together in a fused fashion. Cycloalkyl groups can contain 3 to 10 atoms in the ring(s). 3 to 8 atoms in the ring(s) or 3 to 6 atoms in the ring(s). A cycloalkyl group may be unsubstituted or substituted. Typical cycloalkyl groups include, but are in no way limited to, cyclopropyl, cyclobutyl, cyclopentyl, cyclohexyl, cycloheptyl and cyclooctyl.

[0022] As used herein, “cycloalkenyl” refers to a mono- or multi- cyclic hydrocarbon ring system that contains one or more double bonds in at least one ring; although, if there is more than one, the double bonds cannot form a fully delocalized pi-electron system throughout all the rings (otherwise the group would be “aryl,” as defined herein). When composed of two or more rings, the rings may be connected together in a fused fashion. A cycloalkenyl can contain 3 to 10 atoms in the ring(s) or 3 to 8 atoms in the ring(s). A cycloalkenyl group may be unsubstituted or substituted.

[0023] As used herein, “aryl” refers to a carbocyclic (all carbon) monocyclic or multicyclic aromatic ring system (including fused ring systems where two carbocyclic ringsshare a chemical bond) that has a fully delocalized pi-electron system throughout all the rings. The number of carbon atoms in an aryl group can vary. For example, the aryl group can be a Ce-Cu aryl group, a Ce-Cio aryl group, or a Ce aryl group. Examples of aryl groups include, but are not limited to, benzene, naphthalene and azulene. An aryl group may be substituted or unsubstituted.

[0024] As used herein, “heteroaryl” refers to a monocyclic, bicyclic and tricyclic aromatic ring system (a ring system with fully delocalized pi-electron system) that contain(s) one or more heteroatoms (for example, 1 to 5 heteroatoms), that is, an element other than carbon, including, but not limited to, nitrogen, oxygen and sulfur. The number of atoms in the ring(s) of a heteroaryl group can vary. For example, the heteroaryl group can contain 4 to 14 atoms in the ring(s), 5 to 10 atoms in the ring(s) or 5 to 6 atoms in the ring(s). Furthermore, the term “heteroaryl” includes fused ring systems where two rings, such as at least one aryl ring and at least one heteroaryl ring, or at least two heteroaryl rings, share at least one chemical bond. Examples of heteroaryl rings include, but are not limited to, furan, furazan, thiophene, benzothiophene, phthalazine, pyrrole, oxazole, benzoxazole, 1,2,3-oxadiazole, 1,2,4- oxadiazole, thiazole, 1,2, 3 -thiadiazole, 1,2,4-thiadiazole, benzothiazole, imidazole, benzimidazole, indole, indazole, pyrazole, benzopyrazole, isoxazole, benzoisoxazole, isothiazole, triazole, benzotriazole, thiadiazole, tetrazole, pyridine, pyridazine, pyrimidine, pyrazine, purine, pteridine, quinoline, isoquinoline, quinazoline, quinoxaline, cinnoline and triazine. A heteroaryl group may be substituted or unsubstituted.

[0025] As used herein, “heterocyclyl” refers to a monocyclic, bicyclic and tricyclic ring system wherein carbon atoms together with from 1 to 5 heteroatoms constitute said ring system. A heterocycle may optionally contain one or more unsaturated bonds situated in such a way, however, that a fully delocalized pi-electron system does not occur throughout all the rings. The number of atoms in the ring(s) of a heterocyclyl group can vary. For example, the heterocyclyl group can contain 4 to 14 atoms in the ring(s), 5 to 10 atoms in the ring(s) or 5 to 6 atoms in the ring(s). The heteroatom(s) is an element other than carbon including, but not limited to, oxygen, sulfur and nitrogen. A heterocycle may further contain one or more carbonyl or thiocarbonyl functionalities, so as to make the definition include oxo-systems and thio-systems such as lactams, lactones, cyclic imides, cyclic thioimides and cyclic carbamates. When composed of two or more rings, the rings may be joined together in a fused fashion.Additionally, any nitrogens in a heterocyclyl may be quaternized. Heterocyclyl groups may be unsubstituted or substituted. Examples of such “heterocyclyl groups include, but are not limited to, 1,3-dioxin, 1,3-dioxane, 1,4-dioxane, 1,2-dioxolane, 1,3 -dioxolane, 1,4-di oxolane, 1,3-oxathiane, 1,4-oxathiin, 1,3-oxathiolane, 1,3-dithiole, 1,3-dithiolane, 1 ,4-oxathiane, tetrahydro- 1 ,4-thiazine, 2H-l,2-oxazine, maleimide, succinimide, barbituric acid, thiobarbituric acid, dioxopiperazine, hydantoin, dihydrouracil, trioxane, hexahydro- 1,3, 5- triazine, imidazoline, imidazolidine, isoxazoline, isoxazolidine, oxazoline, oxazolidine, oxazolidinone, thiazoline, thiazolidine, morpholine, oxirane, piperidine / V-Oxide, piperidine, piperazine, pyrrolidine, pyrrolidone, pyrrolidione, 4-piperidone, pyrazoline, pyrazolidine, 2- oxopyrrolidine, tetrahydropyran, 4H-pyran, tetrahydrothiopyran, thiamorpholine, thiamorpholine sulfoxide, thiamorpholine sulfone and their benzo-fused analogs (e.g., benzimidazolidinone, tetrahydroquinoline and 3,4-methylenedioxyphenyl).

[0026] As used herein, “aryl(alkyl)” refer to an aryl group connected, as a substituent, via a lower alkylene group. The lower alkylene and aryl group of an aryl(alkyl) may be substituted or unsubstituted. Examples include, but are not limited to, benzyl, 2- phenyl(alkyl), 3-phenyl(alkyl), and naphthyl(alkyl).

[0027] As used herein, “heteroaryl(alkyl)” refer to a heteroaryl group connected, as a substituent, via a lower alkylene group. The lower alkylene and heteroaryl group of heteroaryl(alkyl) may be substituted or unsubstituted. Examples include, but are not limited to, 2-thienyl(alkyl), 3-thienyl(alkyl), furyl(alkyl), thienyl(alkyl), pyrrolyl(alkyl), pyridyl(alkyl), isoxazolyl(alkyl), imidazolyl(alkyl) and their benzo-fused analogs.

[0028] A “(heterocyclyl)alkyl” refer to a heterocyclic group connected, as a substituent, via a lower alkylene group. The lower alkylene and heterocyclyl of a heterocyclyl(alkyl) may be substituted or unsubstituted. Examples include, but are not limited to, tetrahydro-2H-pyran-4-yl(methyl), piperidin-4-yl(ethyl), piperidin-4-yl(propyl), tetrahydro-2H-thiopyran-4-yl(methyl) and 1 ,3 -thiazinan-4-yl(methyl).

[0029] ‘Lower alkylene groups” are straight- chained -CH2- tethering groups, forming bonds to connect molecular fragments via their terminal carbon atoms. In some embodiments, a lower alkylene can include 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6 carbons. Examples include, but are not limited to, methylene (-CH2-), ethylene (-CH2CH2-), propylene (-CH2CH2CH2-) and butylene (-CH2CH2CH2CH2-). A lower alkylene group can be substituted by replacing one ormore hydrogen of the lower alkylene group with a substituent(s) listed under the definition of “substituted.”

[0030] As used herein, “alkoxy” refers to the formula -OR wherein R is an alkyl, an alkenyl, an alkynyl, a cycloalkyl, a cycloalkenyl, aryl, heteroaryl, heterocyclyl, aryl(alkyl), heteroaryl(alkyl) or heterocyclyl(alkyl) is defined herein. A non-limiting list of alkoxys are methoxy, ethoxy, n-propoxy, 1 -methylethoxy (isopropoxy), n-butoxy, iso-butoxy, sec-butoxy, tert-butoxy, phenoxy and benzoxy. In some instances, an alkoxy can be -OR wherein R is an unsubstituted Ci-4 alkyl. An alkoxy may be substituted or unsubstituted.

[0031] As used herein, “acyl” refers to a hydrogen an alkyl, an alkenyl, an alkynyl, a cycloalkyl, a cycloalkenyl, aryl, heteroaryl, heterocyclyl, aryl(alkyl), heteroaryl(alkyl) or heterocyclyl(alkyl) connected, as substituents, via a carbonyl group. Examples include formyl, acetyl, propanoyl, benzoyl, and acryl. An acyl may be substituted or unsubstituted.

[0032] As used herein, “hydroxyalkyl” refers to an alkyl group in which one or more of the hydrogen atoms are replaced by a hydroxy group. Exemplary hydroxyalkyl groups include, but are not limited to, 2-hy dr oxy ethyl, 3 -hydroxypropyl, 2-hydroxypropyl and 2,2- dihy dr oxy ethyl. A hydroxyalkyl may be substituted or unsubstituted.

[0033] As used herein, “haloalkyl” refers to an alkyl group in which one or more of the hydrogen atoms are replaced by a halogen (e.g., mono-haloalkyl, di-haloalkyl and tri- haloalkyl). Such groups include, but are not limited to, chloromethyl, fluoromethyl, difluoromethyl, trifluoromethyl, l-chloro-2-fluoromethyl and 2-fluoroisobutyl. A haloalkyl may be substituted or unsubstituted.

[0034] As used herein, “haloalkoxy” refers to a O-alkyl group in which one or more of the hydrogen atoms are replaced by a halogen (e.g., mono-haloalkoxy, di- haloalkoxy and tri- haloalkoxy). Such groups include, but are not limited to, chloromethoxy, fluoromethoxy, difluoromethoxy, trifluoromethoxy, 1 -chloro-2-fluoromethoxy and 2-fluoroisobutoxy. In some instances, a haloalkoxy can be -OR, wherein R is a Ci-4 alkyl substituted by 1, 2 or 3 halogens. A haloalkoxy may be substituted or unsubstituted.

[0035] A “sulfenyl” group refers to an “-SR” group in which R can be hydrogen, alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, aryl, heteroaryl, heterocyclyl, aryl(alkyl), heteroaryl(alkyl) or heterocyclyl(alkyl). A sulfenyl may be substituted or unsubstituted.

[0036] A “sulfinyl” group refers to an “-S(=O)-R” group in which R can be the same as defined with respect to sulfenyl. A sulfinyl may be substituted or unsubstituted.

[0037] A “sulfonyl” group refers to an “SO2R” group in which R can be the same as defined with respect to sulfenyl. A sulfonyl may be substituted or unsubstituted.

[0038] An “O-carboxy” group refers to a “RC(=O)O-” group in which R can be hydrogen, alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, aryl, heteroaryl, heterocyclyl, aryl(alkyl), heteroaryl(alkyl) or heterocyclyl(alkyl), as defined herein. An O-carboxy may be substituted or unsubstituted.

[0039] The terms “ester” and “C-carboxy” refer to a “-C(=O)OR” group in which R can be the same as defined with respect to O-carboxy. An ester and C-carboxy may be substituted or unsubstituted.

[0040] A “thiocarbonyl” group refers to a “-C(=S)R” group in which R can be the same as defined with respect to O-carboxy. A thiocarbonyl may be substituted or unsubstituted.

[0041] A “trihalomethanesulfonyl” group refers to an “X3CSO2-” group wherein each X is a halogen.

[0042] A “trihalomethanesulfonamido” group refers to an “X3CS(O)2N(RA)-” group wherein each X is a halogen, and RA is hydrogen, alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, aryl, heteroaryl, heterocyclyl, aryl(alkyl), heteroaryl(alkyl) or heterocyclyl(alkyl) .

[0043] The term “amino” as used herein refers to a -NH2 group.

[0044] As used herein, the term “hydroxy” refers to a -OH group.

[0045] A “cyano” group refers to a “-CN” group.

[0046] The term “azido” as used herein refers to a -N3 group.

[0047] An “isocyanato” group refers to a “-NCO” group.

[0048] A “thiocyanato” group refers to a “-SCN” group.

[0049] An “isothiocyanate” group refers to an “ -NCS” group.

[0050] A “mercapto” group refers to an “-SH” group.

[0051] A “carbonyl” group refers to a -C(=O)- group.

[0052] An “S-sulfonamido” group refers to a “-SO2N(RARB)” group in which RA and RB can be independently hydrogen, alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, aryl,heteroaryl, heterocyclyl, aryl(alkyl), heteroaryl(alkyl) or heterocyclyl(alkyl). An S-sulfonamido may be substituted or unsubstituted.

[0053] An “N-sulfonamido” group refers to a “RSO2N(RA)-” group in which R and RA can be independently hydrogen, alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, aryl, heteroaryl, heterocyclyl, aryl(alkyl), heteroaryl(alkyl) or heterocyclyl(alkyl). An N-sulfonamido may be substituted or unsubstituted.

[0054] An “O-carbamyl” group refers to a “-OC(=O)N(RARB)” group in which RA and RB can be independently hydrogen, alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, aryl, heteroaryl, heterocyclyl, aryl(alkyl), heteroaryl(alkyl) or heterocyclyl(alkyl). An O-carbamyl may be substituted or unsubstituted.

[0055] An “N-carbamyl” group refers to an “R0C(=0)N(RA)-” group in which R and RA can be independently hydrogen, alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, aryl, heteroaryl, heterocyclyl, aryl(alkyl), heteroaryl(alkyl) or heterocyclyl(alkyl). An N-carbamyl may be substituted or unsubstituted.

[0056] An “O-thiocarbamyl” group refers to a “-OC(=S)-N(RARB)” group in which RA and RB can be independently hydrogen, alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, aryl, heteroaryl, heterocyclyl, aryl(alkyl), heteroaryl(alkyl) or heterocyclyl(alkyl). An O-thiocarbamyl may be substituted or unsubstituted.

[0057] An “N-thiocarbamyl” group refers to an “ROC(=S)N(RA)-” group in which R and RA can be independently hydrogen, alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, aryl, heteroaryl, heterocyclyl, aryl(alkyl), heteroaryl(alkyl) or heterocyclyl(alkyl). An N-thiocarbamyl may be substituted or unsubstituted.

[0058] A “C-amido” group refers to a “-C(=O)N(RARB)” group in which RA and RB can be independently hydrogen, alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, aryl, heteroaryl, heterocyclyl, aryl(alkyl), heteroaryl(alkyl) or heterocyclyl(alkyl). A C-amido may be substituted or unsubstituted.

[0059] An “N-amido” group refers to a “RC(=O)N(RA)-” group in which R and RA can be independently hydrogen, alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, aryl, heteroaryl, heterocyclyl, aryl(alkyl), heteroaryl(alkyl) or heterocyclyl(alkyl). An N-amido may be substituted or unsubstituted.

[0060] A “mono-substituted amine” refers to a “-NHRA” in which RA can be independently alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, aryl, heteroaryl, heterocyclyl, aryl(alkyl), heteroaryl(alkyl) or heterocyclyl(alkyl). A mono-substituted amine may be substituted or unsubstituted. In some instances, a mono- substituted amine can be -NHRA, wherein RA can be an unsubstituted Ci-6 alkyl or an unsubstituted or a substituted benzyl.

[0061] A “di-substituted amine” refers to a “-NRARB” in which RA and RB can be independently can be independently alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, aryl, heteroaryl, heterocyclyl, aryl(alkyl), heteroaryl(alkyl) or heterocyclyl(alkyl). A mono- substituted amine may be substituted or unsubstituted. In some instances, a mono- substituted amine can be -NRARB, wherein RA and RB can be independently an unsubstituted Ci-6 alkyl or an unsubstituted or a substituted benzyl.

[0062] The term “halogen atom” or “halogen” as used herein, means any one of the radio-stable atoms of column 7 of the Periodic Table of the Elements, such as, fluorine, chlorine, bromine and iodine.

[0063] Where the numbers of substituents are not specified (e.g., haloalkyl), there may be one or more substituents present. For example, “haloalkyl” may include one or more of the same or different halogens. As another example, “C1-C3 alkoxyphenyl” may include one or more of the same or different alkoxy groups containing one, two or three atoms.

[0064] As used herein, the abbreviations for any protective groups, amino acids and other compounds, are, unless indicated otherwise, in accord with their common usage, recognized abbreviations, or the IUPAC-IUB Commission on Biochemical Nomenclature (See, Biochem. 11 :942-944 (1972)).

[0065] The term “pharmaceutically acceptable salt” refers to a salt of a compound that does not cause significant irritation to an organism to which it is administered and does not abrogate the biological activity and properties of the compound. In some embodiments, the salt is an acid addition salt of the compound. Pharmaceutical salts can be obtained by reacting a compound with inorganic acids such as hydrohalic acid (e.g., hydrochloric acid or hydrobromic acid), sulfuric acid, nitric acid and phosphoric acid. Pharmaceutical salts can also be obtained by reacting a compound with an organic acid such as aliphatic or aromatic carboxylic or sulfonic acids, for example formic, acetic, succinic, lactic, malic, tartaric, citric, ascorbic, nicotinic, methanesulfonic, ethanesulfonic, p-toluenesulfonic, salicylic ornaphthalenesulfonic acid. Pharmaceutical salts can also be obtained by reacting a compound with a base to form a salt such as an ammonium salt (for example, ammonium or triethylammonium salt), an alkali metal salt, such as a lithium, a sodium or a potassium salt, an alkaline earth metal salt, such as a calcium or a magnesium salt, a salt of organic bases such as dicyclohexylamine, N-methyl-D-glucamine, tris(hydroxymethyl)methylamine, C1-C7 alkylamine, cyclohexylamine, triethanolamine, ethylenediamine, and salts with amino acids such as arginine and lysine.

[0066] Terms and phrases used in this application, and variations thereof, especially in the appended claims, unless otherwise expressly stated, should be construed as open ended as opposed to limiting. As examples of the foregoing, the term ‘including’ should be read to mean ‘including, without limitation,’ ‘including, but not limited to,’ or the like; the term ‘comprising’ as used herein is synonymous with ‘including,’ ‘containing,’ or ‘characterized by,’ and is inclusive or open-ended and does not exclude additional, unrecited elements or method steps; the term ‘having’ should be interpreted as ‘having at least;’ the term ‘includes’ should be interpreted as ‘includes but is not limited to;’ the term ‘example’ is used to provide exemplary instances of the item in discussion, not an exhaustive or limiting list thereof. In addition, the term “comprising” is to be interpreted synonymously with the phrases "having at least" or "including at least". When used in the context of a compound or composition, the term "comprising" means that the compound or composition includes at least the recited features or components but may also include additional features or components.

[0067] With respect to the use of substantially any plural and / or singular terms herein, those having skill in the art can translate from the plural to the singular and / or from the singular to the plural as is appropriate to the context and / or application. The various singular / plural permutations may be expressly set forth herein for sake of clarity. The indefinite article “a” or “an” does not exclude a plurality.

[0068] It is understood that, in any compound described herein having one or more chiral centers, if an absolute stereochemistry is not expressly indicated, then each center may independently be of (Reconfiguration or (S)-configuration or a mixture thereof. Thus, the compounds provided herein may be enantiomerically pure, enantiomerically enriched, racemic mixture, diastereomerically pure, diastereomerically enriched, or a stereoisomeric mixture. In addition, it is understood that, in any compound described herein having one or more doublebond(s) generating geometrical isomers that can be defined as E or Z, each double bond may independently be E or Z a mixture thereof. Likewise, it is understood that, in any compound described, all tautomeric forms are also intended to be included.

[0069] It is to be understood that where compounds disclosed herein have unfilled valencies, then the valencies are to be filled with hydrogens or isotopes thereof, e.g., hydrogen- 1 (protium) and hydrogen-2 (deuterium).

[0070] It is understood that the compounds described herein can be labeled isotopically. Substitution with isotopes such as deuterium may afford certain therapeutic advantages resulting from greater metabolic stability, such as, for example, increased in vivo half-life or reduced dosage requirements. Each chemical element as represented in a compound structure may include any isotope of said element. For example, in a compound structure a hydrogen atom may be explicitly disclosed or understood to be present in the compound. At any position of the compound that a hydrogen atom may be present, the hydrogen atom can be any isotope of hydrogen, including, but not limited to, hydrogen- 1 (protium) and hydrogen-2 (deuterium). Thus, reference herein to a compound encompasses all potential isotopic forms unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0071] Where a range of values is provided, it is understood that the upper and lower limit, and each intervening value between the upper and lower limit of the range is encompassed within the embodiments.Compounds

[0072] Examples of embodiments of the present application include the following:Embodiment 1

[0073] A compound of Formula (I), or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, having the structure:wherein:X1can be selected from CH and N;Y1can be selected from N and CR3c;Y2can be CR3e;Y3can be CR3f;Rlacan be selected from -C1-4 alkyl, -C1-4 haloalkyl, -CH 2(63 -6 monocyclic cycloalkyl), -C2-4 alkyl(O-Ci-4 alkyl), -C2-4 alkyl(OCi-4 haloalkyl), -CH2(4-6 membered monocyclic heterocyclyl) and -CH2(5-6 membered monocyclic heteroaryl);RlbcanR2a, R2b, R2C, R2e, R2g, R2hcan be independently selected from hydrogen and halogen;R2dand R2fcan be selected from hydrogen, halogen, cyano, -CH3, -CH2CH3, -CH2OH, -OCH3 and -SCH3;R3acan be selected from hydrogen, -CH3, -C2-4 alkyl and -C2-4 haloalkyl, wherein the -C2-4 alkyl can be optionally substituted with one or two or three substituents independently selected from hydroxy and -OR3al;R3alcan be -C1-4 alkyl;R3bcan be selected from hydrogen, -CH3, -C2-4 alkyl and -C2-4 haloalkyl;R3Ccan be selected from hydrogen, -CH3, -C2-4 alkyl and -C2-4 haloalkyl;R3dcan be selected from hydrogen, -CH3, -C2-4 alkyl and -C2-4 haloalkyl;R3ecan be selected from hydrogen, halogen and -CH3;R3fcan be selected from hydrogen, halogen, -OH, -CN and -CH3;RZ1is selected from hydrogen, -C1-4 alkyl and -C1-4 haloalkyl, wherein the -C1-4 alkyl can be optionally substituted with one or two or three substituents independently selected from hydroxy and -ORZ3;RZ3can be -C1-4 alkyl; andRX3can be -C(=O)ORZ1.Embodiment 2

[0074] The compound of Embodiment 1, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein RZ1can be hydrogen.Embodiment 3

[0075] The compound of Embodiment 1, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein RZ1can be -C1-4 alkyl. Examples of Ci-4 alkyls include methyl, ethyl, n- propyl, iso-propyl, n-butyl, iso-butyl, sec-butyl and tert-butyl.Embodiment 4

[0076] The compound of Embodiment 1, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein RZ1can be -C1-4 haloalkyl.Embodiment 5

[0077] The compound of any one of Embodiments 1-4, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein X1can be N (nitrogen).Embodiment 6

[0078] The compound of any one of Embodiments 1-5, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein Rlacan be -Ci-4 alkyl. Examples of Ci-4 alkyls include methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, iso-propyl, n-butyl, iso-butyl, sec-butyl and tert-butyl.Embodiment 7

[0079] The compound of Embodiment 6, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein Rlacan be -CH3. Embodiment 8

[0080] The compound of any one of Embodiments 1-5, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein Rlacan be -C1-4 haloalkyl.Embodiment 9

[0081] The compound of any one of Embodiments 1-5, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein Rlacan be -CH2(C3-6 monocyclic cycloalkyl), -CH2(4-6 membered monocyclic heterocyclyl) or -CH2(5-6 membered monocyclic heteroaryl). Embodiment 10

[0082] The compound of any one of Embodiments 1-5, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein Rlacan be -C2-4 alkyl(OCi-4 alkyl) or -C2-4 alkyl(OCi-4 haloalkyl).Embodiment 11

[0083] The compound of any one of Embodiments 1-10, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein B1canEmbodiment 12

[0084] The compound of Embodiment 11 , or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R3dcan be hydrogen.Embodiment 13

[0085] The compound of Embodiment 11 , or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R3dcan be -CH3.Embodiment 14

[0086] The compound of Embodiment 11 , or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R3dcan be -C2-4 alkyl.Embodiment 15

[0087] The compound of Embodiment 11 , or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R3dcan be -C2-4 haloalkyl.Embodiment 16

[0088] The compound of any one of Embodiments 11-15, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein Y2can be CR3e, wherein R3ecan be hydrogen.Embodiment 17

[0089] The compound of any one of Embodiments 11-15, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein Y2can be CR3e, wherein R3ecan be halogen.Embodiment 18

[0090] The compound of any one of Embodiments 11-15, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein Y2can be CR3e, wherein R3ecan be -CH3.Embodiment 19

[0091] The compound of any one of Embodiments 11-18, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein Y3can be CR3f, wherein R3fcan be hydrogen.Embodiment 20

[0092] The compound of any one of Embodiments 11-18, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein Y3can be CR3f, wherein R3fcan be halogen.Embodiment 21

[0093] The compound of any one of Embodiments 11-18, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein Y3can be CR3f, wherein R3fcan be -OH.Embodiment 22

[0094] The compound of any one of Embodiments 11-18, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein Y3can be CR3f, wherein R3fcan be -CN.Embodiment 23

[0095] The compound of any one of Embodiments 11-18, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein Y3can be CR3f, wherein R3fcan be -CH3.Embodiment 24

[0096] The compound of any one of Embodiments 1-10, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein B1canEmbodiment 25

[0097] The compound of Embodiment 24, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein Y1can be CR3c, wherein R3ccan be hydrogen.Embodiment 26

[0098] The compound of Embodiment 24, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein Y1can be CR3c, wherein R3ccan be -CH3.Embodiment 27

[0099] The compound of Embodiment 24, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein Y1can be CR3c, wherein R3ccan be -C2-4 alkyl.Embodiment 28

[0100] The compound of Embodiment 24, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein Y1can be CR3c, wherein R3ccan be -C2-4 haloalkyl.Embodiment 29

[0101] The compound of any one of Embodiments 24-28, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R3bcan be hydrogen.Embodiment 30

[0102] The compound of any one of Embodiments 24-28, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R3bcan be -CH3.Embodiment 31

[0103] The compound of any one of Embodiments 24-28, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R3bcan be -C2-4 alkyl.Embodiment 32

[0104] The compound of any one of Embodiments 24-28, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R3bcan be -C2-4 haloalkyl.Embodiment 33

[0105] The compound of any one of Embodiments 24-32, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R3acan be hydrogen.Embodiment 34

[0106] The compound of any one of Embodiments 24-32, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R3acan be -CH3.Embodiment 35

[0107] The compound of any one of Embodiments 24-32, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R3acan be-C2-4 alkyl optionally substituted with one or two or three substituents independently selected from hydroxy and -OR3al. Examples of C2-4 alkyls include ethyl, n-propyl, iso-propyl, n-butyl, iso-butyl, sec-butyl and tert-butyl. In some embodiments, R3acan be -C2-4 alkyl substituted with hydroxy. In other embodiments, R3acan be -C2-4 alkyl substituted with -OR3al. For example, R3acan be -C2-4 alkyl substituted with -OCH3.Embodiment 36

[0108] The compound of any one of Embodiments 24-32, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R3acan be -C2-4 haloalkyl.Embodiment 37

[0109] The compound of Embodiments 24, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein B1canEmbodiment 38

[0110] The compound of Embodiment 24, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein B1canEmbodiment 39

[0111] The compound of Embodiment 24, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein B1canEmbodiment 40

[0112] The compound of Embodiment 24, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein B1canEmbodiment 41

[0113] The compound of any one of Embodiments 1 -40, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R2a, R2b, R2gand R2heach can be hydrogen.Embodiment 42

[0114] The compound of any one of Embodiments 1-41, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R2dand R2feach can be halogen.Embodiment 43

[0115] The compound of any one of Embodiments 1-41, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R2dcan be -CH3 and R2fcan be halogen.Embodiment 44

[0116] The compound of Embodiment 42 or 43, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein the halogen can be chloro.Embodiment 45

[0117] The compound of any one of Embodiments 1-44, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R2cand R2eeach can be hydrogen.Embodiment 46

[0118] The compound of any one of Embodiments 1-44, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R2ccan be halogen and R2ecan be hydrogen.Embodiment 47

[0119] The compound of any one of Embodiments 1-44, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R2ecan be halogen and R2ccan be hydrogen.Embodiment 48

[0120] The compound of Embodiment 46 or 47, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein the halogen can be fluoro.Embodiment 49

[0121] The compound of Embodiment 1, wherein the compound can be selected from:a pharmaceutically acceptable salt of any of the foregoing.Embodiment 50

[0122] The compound of Embodiment 2, wherein the compound can be selected from:r a pharmaceutically acceptable salt of any of the foregoing.Embodiment 51

[0123] A pharmaceutical composition that can include an effective amount of a compound of any one of Embodiments 1-50, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and an excipient.Embodiment 52

[0124] A method for treating hepatitis B in a subject that can include administering to the subject in need thereof an effective amount of a compound of any one of Embodiments 1-50, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.Embodiment 53

[0125] A method for treating hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in a subject that can include administering to the subject in need thereof an effective amount of a compound of any one of Embodiments 1-50, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.Embodiment 54

[0126] The method of any one of Embodiments 52-53, that can further include administering surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, hormonal therapy, or antiviral therapy.Embodiment 55

[0127] A compound of any one of Embodiments 1-50, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, for use in treating hepatitis B.Embodiment 56

[0128] A compound of any one of Embodiments 1-50, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, for use in treating hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).Embodiment 57

[0129] The compound of any one of Embodiments 55-56, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein the use can further include administering surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, hormonal therapy, or antiviral therapy.Embodiment 58

[0130] Use of a compound of any one of Embodiments 1-50, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, in the preparation of a medicament for use in treating hepatitis B.Embodiment 59

[0131] Use of a compound of any one of Embodiments 1-50, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, in the preparation of a medicament for use in treating hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).Embodiment 60

[0132] The use of any one of Embodiments 58-59, wherein the medicament can be for use in combination with surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, hormonal therapy, or antiviral therapy.Methods of Preparation

[0133] The compounds described herein, along with pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, can be prepared according to the Examples described herein, and are generally prepared from starting materials which are either commercially available or prepared by standard synthetic processes used by those skilled in the art.Pharmaceutical Compositions

[0134] Some embodiments described herein relate to pharmaceutical compositions that comprise, consist essentially of, or consist of an effective amount of a compound described herein, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, excipient, or combination thereof. A pharmaceutical composition described herein is suitable for human and / or veterinary applications.

[0135] The terms “function” and “functional” as used herein refer to a biological, enzymatic, or therapeutic function.

[0136] The terms “effective amount” or “effective dose” is used to indicate an amount of an active compound, or pharmaceutical agent, which elicits the biological or medicinal response indicated. For example, an effective amount of compound can be the amount needed to alleviate or ameliorate symptoms of disease or prolong the survival of the subject being treated This response may occur in a tissue, system, animal or human and includes alleviation of the signs or symptoms of the disease being treated. Determination of an effective amount is well within the capability of those skilled in the art, in view of the disclosure provided herein. The effective amount of the compounds disclosed herein requiredas a dose will depend on the route of administration, the type of animal, including human, being treated, and the physical characteristics of the specific animal under consideration. The dose can be tailored to achieve a desired effect, but will depend on such factors as weight, diet, concurrent medication and other factors which those skilled in the medical arts will recognize.

[0137] ‘Formulation”, “pharmaceutical composition”, and “composition” as used interchangeably herein are equivalent terms referring to a composition of matter for administration to a subject.

[0138] The term “pharmaceutically acceptable” means compatible with the treatment of a subject, and in particular, a human.

[0139] The terms “agent” refers to an active agent that has biological activity and may be used in a therapy. Also, an “agent” can be synonymous with “at least one agent,” “compound,” or “at least one compound,” and can refer to any form of the agent, such as a derivative, analog, salt or a prodrug thereof. The agent can be present in various forms, components of molecular complexes, and pharmaceutically acceptable salts (e.g., hydrochlorides, hydrobromides, sulfates, phosphates, nitrates, borates, acetates, maleates, tartrates, and salicylates). The term “agent” can also refer to any pharmaceutical molecules or compounds, therapeutic molecules or compounds, matrix forming molecules or compounds, polymers, synthetic molecules and compounds, natural molecules and compounds, and any combination thereof.

[0140] The term “subject” as used herein has its ordinary meaning as understood in light of the specification and refers to an animal that is the object of treatment, inhibition, or amelioration, observation or experiment. “Animal” has its ordinary meaning as understood in light of the specification and includes cold- and warm-blooded vertebrates and / or invertebrates such as fish, shellfish, or reptiles and, in particular, mammals. “Mammal” has its ordinary meaning as understood in light of the specification, and includes but is not limited to mice, rats, rabbits, guinea pigs, dogs, cats, sheep, goats, cows, horses, primates, such as humans, monkeys, chimpanzees, or apes. In some embodiments, the subject is human.

[0141] Proper formulation is dependent upon the route of administration chosen. Techniques for formulation and administration of the compounds described herein are known to those skilled in the art. Multiple techniques of administering a compound exist in the art including, but not limited to, enteral, oral, rectal, topical, sublingual, buccal, intraaural,epidural, epicutaneous, aerosol, parenteral delivery, including intramuscular, subcutaneous, intra-arterial, intravenous, intraportal, intra-articular, intradermal, peritoneal, intramedullary injections, intrathecal, direct intraventricular, intraperitoneal, intranasal or intraocular injections. Pharmaceutical compositions will generally be tailored to the specific intended route of administration. Pharmaceutical compositions can also be administered to isolated cells from a patient or individual, such as T cells, Natural Killer cells, B cells, macrophages, lymphocytes, stem cells, bone marrow cells, or hematopoietic stem cells.

[0142] The pharmaceutical compound can also be administered in a local rather than systemic manner, for example, via injection of the compound directly into an organ, tissue, cancer, tumor or infected area, often in a depot or sustained release formulation. Furthermore, one may administer the compound in a targeted drug delivery system, for example, in a liposome coated with a tissue specific antibody. The liposomes may be targeted to and taken up selectively by the organ, tissue, cancer, tumor, or infected area.

[0143] The pharmaceutical compositions disclosed herein may be manufactured in a manner that is itself known, e.g., by means of conventional mixing, dissolving, granulating, dragee-making, levigating, emulsifying, encapsulating, entrapping or tableting processes. As described herein, compounds used in a pharmaceutical composition may be provided as salts with pharmaceutically compatible counterions.

[0144] As used herein, a “carrier” refers to a compound, particle, solid, semi-solid, liquid, or diluent that facilitates the passage, delivery and / or incorporation of a compound to cells, tissues and / or bodily organs. For example, without limitation, a lipid nanoparticle (LNP) is a type of carrier that can encapsulate a compound, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, as described herein to thereby protect the compound, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, as described herein from degradation during passage through the bloodstream and / or to facilitate delivery to a desired organ, such as to the liver.

[0145] As used herein, a “diluent” refers to an ingredient in a pharmaceutical composition that lacks pharmacological activity but may be pharmaceutically necessary or desirable. For example, a diluent may be used to increase the bulk of a potent drug whose mass is too small for manufacture and / or administration. It may also be a liquid for the dissolution of a drug to be administered by injection, ingestion or inhalation. A common formof diluent in the art is a buffered aqueous solution such as, without limitation, phosphate buffered saline that mimics the composition of human blood.

[0146] The term “excipient” has its ordinary meaning as understood in light of the specification, and refers to inert substances, compounds, or materials added to a pharmaceutical composition to provide, without limitation, bulk, consistency, stability, binding ability, lubrication, disintegrating ability etc., to the composition. Excipients with desirable properties include, but are not limited to, preservatives, adjuvants, stabilizers, solvents, buffers, diluents, solubilizing agents, detergents, surfactants, chelating agents, antioxidants, alcohols, ketones, aldehydes, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), citric acid, salts, sodium chloride, sodium bicarbonate, sodium phosphate, sodium borate, sodium citrate, potassium chloride, potassium phosphate, magnesium sulfate sugars, dextrose, fructose, mannose, lactose, galactose, sucrose, sorbitol, cellulose, serum, amino acids, polysorbate 20, polysorbate 80, sodium deoxycholate, sodium taurodeoxycholate, magnesium stearate, octylphenol ethoxylate, benzethonium chloride, thimerosal, gelatin, esters, ethers, 2-phenoxyethanol, urea, or vitamins, or any combination thereof. The amount of the excipient may be found in a pharmaceutical composition at a percentage of 0%, 0.1%, 0.2%, 0.3%, 0.4%, 0.5%, 0.6%, 0.7%, 0.8%, 0.9%, 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 95%, 100% w / w or any percentage by weight in a range defined by any two of the aforementioned numbers.

[0147] The term “adjuvant” as used herein refers to a substance, compound, or material that stimulates the immune response and increase the efficacy of protective immunity and is administered in conjunction with an immunogenic antigen, epitope, or composition. Adjuvants serve to improve immune responses by enabling a continual release of antigen, upregulation of cytokines and chemokines, cellular recruitment at the site of administration, increased antigen uptake and presentation in antigen presenting cells, or activation of antigen presenting cells and inflammasomes. Commonly used adjuvants include, but are not limited to, alum, aluminum salts, aluminum sulfate, aluminum hydroxide, aluminum phosphate, calcium phosphate hydroxide, potassium aluminum sulfate, oils, mineral oil, paraffin oil, oil- in-water emulsions, detergents, MF59®, squalene, AS03, a-tocopherol, polysorbate 80, AS04, monophosphoryl lipid A, virosomes, nucleic acids, polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid, saponins, QS-21, proteins, flagellin, cytokines, chemokines, IL-1, IL-2, IL-12, IL-15, IL-21,imidazoquinolines, CpG oligonucleotides, lipids, phospholipids, dioleoyl phosphatidylcholine (DOPC), trehalose dimycolate, peptidoglycans, bacterial extracts, lipopolysaccharides, or Freund’s Adjuvant, or any combination thereof.

[0148] The term “purity” of any given substance, compound, or material as used herein refers to the actual abundance of the substance, compound, or material relative to the expected abundance. For example, the substance, compound, or material may be at least 80, 85, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, or 100% pure, including all decimals in between. Purity may be affected by unwanted impurities, including, but not limited to, side products, isomers, enantiomers, degradation products, solvent, carrier, vehicle, or contaminants, or any combination thereof. Purity can be measured technologies including, but not limited to, chromatography, liquid chromatography, gas chromatography, spectroscopy, UV-visible spectrometry, infrared spectrometry, mass spectrometry, nuclear magnetic resonance, gravimetry, or titration, or any combination thereof.Methods of Use

[0149] Some embodiments disclosed herein relate to selecting a subject or patient in need. In some embodiments, a patient is selected who is in need of treatment, inhibition, amelioration, prevention or slowing of diseases or conditions associated with PD-L1 dysregulation. In some embodiments, such diseases or conditions associated with PD-L1 dysregulation may include, for example, cancer, HCC, viral infections, or HBV. In some embodiments, a subject can be selected who has previously been treated for the disease or disorder described herein. In some embodiments, a subject can be selected who has previously been treated for being at risk for the disease or disorder described herein. In some embodiments, a subject can be selected who has developed a recurrence of the disease or disorder described herein. In some embodiments, a subject can be selected who has developed resistance to therapies for the disease or disorder described herein. In some embodiments, a subject can be selected who may have any combination of the aforementioned selection criteria.

[0150] Compounds, and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, disclosed herein can be evaluated for efficacy and toxicity using known methods. A non-limiting list of potential advantages of a compound, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, describedherein include improved stability, increased safety profile, increased efficacy, increased binding to the target, increased specificity for the target (for example, a cancer cell or virally infected cell).

[0151] The terms “treating,” “treatment,” “therapeutic,” or “therapy” as used herein has its ordinary meaning as understood in light of the specification, and do not necessarily mean total cure or abolition of the disease or condition. The term “treating” or “treatment” as used herein (and as well understood in the art) also means an approach for obtaining beneficial or desired results in a subject’s condition, including clinical results. Beneficial or desired clinical results can include, but are not limited to, alleviation or amelioration of one or more symptoms or conditions, diminishment of the extent of a disease, stabilizing (i.e., not worsening) the state of disease, prevention of a disease’s transmission or spread, delaying or slowing of disease progression, amelioration or palliation of the disease state, diminishment of the reoccurrence of disease, and remission, whether partial or total and whether detectable or undetectable. “Treating” and “treatment” as used herein also include prophylactic treatment. Treatment methods comprise administering to a subject a therapeutically effective amount of an active agent. The administering step may consist of a single administration or may comprise a series of administrations. The compositions are administered to the subject in an amount and for a duration sufficient to treat the subject. The length of the treatment period depends on a variety of factors, such as the severity of the condition, the age and genetic profile of the subject, the concentration of active agent, the activity of the compositions used in the treatment, or a combination thereof. It will also be appreciated that the effective dosage of an agent used for the treatment or prophylaxis may increase or decrease over the course of a particular treatment or prophylaxis regime. Changes in dosage may result and become apparent by standard diagnostic assays known in the art. In some instances, chronic administration may be required.

[0152] Some embodiments described herein relate to a method of treating, inhibiting, ameliorating, preventing, or slowing the disease or disorder described herein. In some embodiments, the methods include administering to a subject identified as suffering from the disease or disorder described herein an effective amount of a compound, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, described herein, or a pharmaceutical composition that includes an effective amount of a compound, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof,as described herein. Other embodiments described herein relate to using a compound, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, as described herein in the manufacture of a medicament for treating, inhibiting ameliorating, preventing, or slowing the disease or disorder described herein. Still other embodiments described herein relate to the use of a compound, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, as described herein or a pharmaceutical composition that includes an effective amount of a compound, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, as described herein for treating, inhibiting ameliorating, preventing, or slowing the disease or disorder described herein.

[0153] Some embodiments described herein relate to a method for inhibiting replication of a cancer cell or a virus that can include contacting the cell or virus or administering to a subject identified as suffering from a cancer or a viral infection with an effective amount of a compound, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, described herein, or a pharmaceutical composition that includes an effective amount of a compound, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, described herein. Other embodiments described herein relate to the use of an effective amount of a compound, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, described herein, or a pharmaceutical composition that includes an effective amount of a compound, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, described herein in the manufacture of a medicament for inhibiting replication of a cancer cell or virus. Still other embodiments described herein relate to an effective amount of a compound, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, described herein, or a pharmaceutical composition that includes an effective amount of a compound, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, described herein for inhibiting replication of a cancer cell or virus. In some embodiments, the cancer cell is an HCC cell. In some embodiments, the virus is hepatitis B.

[0154] Some embodiments described herein relate to a method for inhibiting cell proliferation, such as inhibiting cell proliferation of a cancer cell or cell infected with a virus, that can include administering to a subject identified as suffering from a disease wherein inhibiting cell proliferation is desirable with an effective amount of a compound, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, described herein, or a pharmaceutical composition that includes effective amount of a compound, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, described herein. Other embodiments described herein relate to the use of an effective amount of a compound, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, described herein, or apharmaceutical composition that includes an effective amount of a compound, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, described herein in the manufacture of a medicament for inhibiting cell proliferation, such as inhibiting cell proliferation of a cancer cell or cell infected with a virus. Still other embodiments described herein relate to an effective amount of a compound, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, described herein, or a pharmaceutical composition that includes an effective amount of a compound, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, described herein for inhibiting cell proliferation, such as inhibiting cell proliferation of a cancer cell or cell infected with a virus. In some embodiments, the cancer cell is an HCC cell. In some embodiments, the cell infected with a virus is infected with hepatitis B virus.

[0155] Some embodiments described herein relate to a method of inducing apoptosis of a cell (for example, a cancer cell or cell infected with a virus) that can include contacting the cell with an effective amount of a compound, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, described herein, or a pharmaceutical composition that includes an effective amount of a compound described herein, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. Other embodiments described herein relate to using an effective amount of a compound, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, as described herein or a pharmaceutical composition that includes an effective amount of a compound, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, described herein in the manufacture of a medicament for inducing apoptosis of a cell, such as a cancer cell or cell infected with a virus. Still other embodiments described herein relate to the use of an effective amount of a compound, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, as described herein or a pharmaceutical composition that includes an effective amount of a compound, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, as described herein for inducing apoptosis of a cell, such as a cancer cell or cell infected with a virus. In some embodiments, the cancer cell is an HCC cell. In some embodiments, the cell infected with a virus is infected with hepatitis B virus.

[0156] Some embodiments described herein relate to a method of decreasing the viability of a cell (for example, a cancer cell or cell infected with a virus) that can include contacting the cell with an effective amount of a compound, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, described herein, or a pharmaceutical composition that includes an effective amount of a compound, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, as described herein.Other embodiments described herein relate to using a compound, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, as described herein in the manufacture of a medicament for decreasing the viability of a cell, such as a cancer cell or cell infected with a virus. Still other embodiments described herein relate to the use of an effective amount of a compound, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, as described herein or a pharmaceutical composition that includes an effective amount of a compound, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, as described herein for decreasing the viability of a cell, such as a cancer cell or cell infected with a virus. In some embodiments, the cancer cell is an HCC cell. In some embodiments, the cell infected with a virus is infected with hepatitis B virus.

[0157] Those of skill in the treatment of such diseases could determine the effective therapeutic daily amount from test results. An effective therapeutic daily amount would be from about 0.005 mg / kg to 50 mg / kg. in particular 0.01 mg / kg to 50 mg / kg body weight, more in particular from 0.01 mg / kg to 25 mg / kg body weight, preferably from about 0.01 mg / kg to about 15 mg / kg, more preferably from about 0.01 mg / kg to about 10 mg / kg, even more preferably from about 0.01 mg / kg to about 1 mg / kg, most preferably from about 0.05 mg / kg to about 1 mg / kg body weight.

[0158] In some embodiments, the effective amount of a compound, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, described herein is dosed more than one time. In some embodiments, the compound, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, described herein can be administered every 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 days, or 1, 2, 3, 4 weeks, or 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 months, or 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 years, or any period or combination thereof within the range defined by any two aforementioned times. In some embodiments, at least one loading dose and at least one maintenance dose is administered to the subject, where the at least one loading dose is a higher dose of a compound, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, described herein than the at least one maintenance dose.

[0159] A potential advantage of utilizing a compound as described herein, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, may include effective inhibition of PD-1 / PD-L1 interactions and / or inhibition of the PD-1 / PD-L1 pathway.

[0160] Additional advantages of utilizing a compound as described herein, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, may include low toxicity and reduced drug-drug interactions. Further advantages of utilizing a compound as described herein, or apharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, may include increased levels of plasma exposure at lower dosages compared to INCB086550 and higher oral bioavailability in comparison to INCB086550. Even further advantages of utilizing a compound as described herein, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, may include prolonged half-lives and / or liver-tropic tissue distributions.

[0161] As used herein, the term “combination therapy” is intended to define therapies which comprise the use of a combination of two or more pharmaceutical compounds / agents or therapies. Thus, references to “combination therapy”, “combinations” and the use of compounds / agents “in combination” in this application may refer to compounds / agents that are administered as part of the same overall treatment regimen. As such, the dosage or timing of each of the two or more compounds / agents may differ: each may be administered at the same time or at different times. Accordingly, the compounds / agents of the combination may be administered sequentially (e.g., before or after) or simultaneously, either in the same pharmaceutical formulation (i.e., together), or in different pharmaceutical formulations (i.e., separately). Each of the two or more compounds / agents in a combination therapy may also differ with respect to the route of administration.

[0162] The term “inhibitor”, as used herein, refers to an enzyme inhibitor or receptor inhibitor which is a molecule that binds to an enzyme or receptor, and decreases and / or blocks its activity. The term may relate to a reversible or an irreversible inhibitor.

[0163] Cancer may be treated with surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapies, immunotherapy or hormonal therapies. Any of these mentioned therapies may be used in conjunction with another therapy as a combination therapy. Chemotherapeutic compounds include, but are not limited to, alemtuzumab, altretamine, azacitidine, bendamustine, bleomycin, bortezomib, busulfan, cabazitaxel, capecitabine, carboplatin, carmofur, carmustine, chlorambucil, chlormethine, cisplatin, cladribine, clofarabine, cyclophosphamide, cytarabine, dacarbazine, dactinomycin, daunorubicin, decitabine, denosumab, docetaxel, doxorubicin, epirubicin, estramustine, etoposide, everolimus, floxuridine, fludarabine, fluorouracil, fotemustine, gemcitabine, gemtuzumab, hydroxycarbamide, ibritumomab, idarubicin, ifosfamide, irinotecan, ixabepilone, lomustine, melphalan, mercaptopurine, methotrexate, mitomycin, mitoxantrone, nedaplatin, nelarabine, ofatumumab, oxaliplatin, paclitaxel, pemetrexed, pentostatin, pertuzumab, procarbazine,raltitrexed, streptozotocin, tegafur, temozolomide, temsirolimus, teniposide, tioguanine, topotecan, tositumomab, valrubicin, vinblastine, vincristine, vindesine, vinflunine and vinorelbine, or any combination thereof (including pharmaceutically acceptable salts of any of the foregoing).

[0164] As used herein, the term “protein kinase inhibitor” refers to inhibitors of protein kinases, serine / threonine kinases, tyrosine kinases, or dual-specificity kinases for the treatment of cancer or other illness. In some embodiments, the protein kinase inhibitor can be a small molecule, compound, polysaccharide, lipid, peptide, polypeptide, protein, antibody, nucleoside, nucleoside analog, nucleotide, nucleotide analog, nucleic acid or oligonucleotide (along with pharmaceutically acceptable salts of any of the foregoing). A non-limiting list of the protein kinase inhibitor includes, but is not limited to, acalabrutinib, adavosertib, afatinib, alectinib, axitinib, binimetinib, bosutinib, brigatinib, cediranib, ceritinib, cetuximab, cobimetinib, crizotinib, cabozantinib, dacomitinib, dasatinib, entrectinib, erdafitinib, erlotinib, fostamatinib, gefitinib, ibrutinib, imatinib, lapatinib, lenvatinib, lestaurtinib, lortatinib, masitinib, momelotinib, mubritinib, neratinib, nilotinib, nintedanib, olmutinib, osimertinib, pacritinib, panitumumab, pazopanib, pegaptanib, ponatinib, radotinib, regorafenib, rociletinib, ruxolitinib, selumetinib, semaxanib, sorafenib, sunitinib, SU6656, tivozanib, toceranib, trametinib, trastuzumab, vandetanib and vemurafenib, or any combination thereof (including pharmaceutically acceptable salts of any of the foregoing).

[0165] As used herein, the term “checkpoint inhibitor” refers to an immunotherapy that targets immune checkpoints to stimulate immune function. In some embodiments, the checkpoint inhibitor can be a small molecule, compound, polysaccharide, lipid, peptide, polypeptide, protein, antibody, nucleoside, nucleoside analog, nucleotide, nucleotide analog, nucleic acid or oligonucleotide (along with pharmaceutically acceptable salts of any of the foregoing). In some embodiments, the immune checkpoint can be the PD-1 / PD-L1 checkpoint. Examples of PD-1 checkpoint inhibitors includes, but is not limited to, nivolumab, pembrolizumab, spartalizumab, cemiplimab, camrelizumab, sintilimab, tislelizumab, toripalimab, AMP-224 and AMP-514, or any combination thereof (including pharmaceutically acceptable salts of any of the foregoing). Additional examples of PD-L1 checkpoint inhibitor includes, but is not limited to, atezolizumab, avelumab, durvalumab, KN035, AUNP12, CA- 170 and BMS-986189, or any combination thereof (including pharmaceutically acceptablesalts of any of the foregoing). In some embodiments, the immune checkpoint can be the CTLA-4 checkpoint. A non-limiting list of CTLA-4 checkpoint inhibitors includes, but is not limited to, ipilimumab and tremilimumab, or any combination thereof (including pharmaceutically acceptable salts of any of the foregoing).

[0166] As used herein, the term “VEGF inhibitor” refers to inhibitors of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) or a VEGF receptor (VEGFR). In some embodiments, the VEGF inhibitor can be a small molecule, compound, polysaccharide, lipid, peptide, polypeptide, protein, antibody, nucleoside, nucleoside analog, nucleotide, nucleotide analog, nucleic acid or oligonucleotide (along with pharmaceutically acceptable salts of any of the foregoing). Examples of VEGF inhibitor includes, but is not limited to, aflibercept, axitinib, bevacizumab, brivanib, cabozantinib, cediranib, lenvatinib, linifinib, nintedanib, pazopanib, ponatinib, ramucirumab, regorafenib, semaxanib, sorafenib, sunitinib, tivozanib, toceranib and vandetanib, or any combination thereof (including pharmaceutically acceptable salts of any of the foregoing).

[0167] As used herein, the term “antiviral medication” refers to a pharmaceutical composition administered to treat a viral infection. In some embodiments, the viral infection can be caused by adenovirus, Ebola virus, coronavirus, Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), Friend virus, hantavirus, hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), herpes simplex virus, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), human metapneumovirus, human papillomavirus (HPV), influenza virus, Japanese encephalitis virus, Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus, lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus, parainfluenza virus, rabies virus, respiratory syncytial virus, rhinovirus and / or varicella zoster virus.

[0168] In some embodiments, the antiviral medication can be a small molecule, compound, polysaccharide, lipid, peptide, polypeptide, protein, antibody, nucleoside, nucleoside analog, nucleotide, nucleotide analog, nucleic acid or oligonucleotide (along with pharmaceutically acceptable salts of any of the foregoing). In some embodiments, the antiviral medication can be an interferon, a capsid assembly modulator, a sequence specific oligonucleotide, an entry inhibitor or a small molecule immunomodulatory. A non-limiting list of antiviral medications include, but is not limited to, AB-423, AB-506, ABI-H2158, vebicorvir (ABI-HO731), acyclovir, adapromine, adefovir, adefovir dipivoxil, alafenamide, amantadine, asunaprevir, baloxavir marboxil, beclabuvir, boceprevir, brivudine, cidofovir,ciluprevir, clevudine, cytarabine, daclatasvir, danoprevir, dasabuvir, deleobuvir, dipivoxil, edoxudine, elbasvir, entecavir, faldaprevir, famciclovir, favipiravir, filibuvir, fomivirsen, foscarnet, galidesivir, ganciclovir, glecaprevir, GLS4, grazoprevir, idoxuridine, imiquimod, IFN-a, interferon alfa 2b, JNJ-440, JNJ-6379 (JNJ-56136379), lamivudine, laninamivir, ledipasvir, mericitabine, methisazone, MK-608, moroxydine, narlaprevir, NITD008, NZ-4, odalasvir, ombitasvir, oseltamivir, paritaprevir, peginterferon alfa- 2a, penciclovir, peramivir, pibrentasvir, pimodivir, pleconaril, podophyllotoxin, presatovir, radalbuvir, ravidasvir, remdesivir, REP 2139, REP 2165, resiquimod, R07049389 (RG7907), ribavirin, rifampicin, rimantadine, ruzasvir, samatasvir, setrobuvir, simeprevir, sofosbuvir, sorivudine, sovaprevir, taribavirin, telaprevir, telbivudine, tenofovir, tenofovir disoproxil, tenofovir alfenamide, triazavirin, trifluridine, tromantadine, umifenovir, uprifosbuvir, valaciclovir, valgancicovir, vaniprevir, vedroprevir, velpatasvir, vidarabine, voxilaprevir, zanamivir, cledvudine, ANA- 380 / LB80380, thymalfasin (Zadaxin), ATI-2173, VIR-2218, RG6346, JNJ-73763989 (JNJ- 3989), AB-729, BB-103, Hepcludex (Bulevirtide formerly Myrcludex B), hzVSF, morphothiadin, JNJ-56136379, EDP-514, QL- 007, ABI-H3733, ZM-H1505R, B-836, VNRX-9945, GLP-26, ABI-4334, IONIS-HBVRX (GSK 3228836), EBT107, NASVAC, GS- 4774, HepTcell, VBI-2601 (BRII-179), WX001, VTP-300, CVI-HBV-002, AIC-649, HB- 110, JNJ-64300535, CARG-201, PRGN-2013, SA104, VRGN-0200, selgantolimod, RG7854, SBT-8230, YS-HBV-002, lenvervimab, Vir-3434, IMC-I109V, LTCR-H2-1, APG-1387, ASC42, EYP001, EDP-721, ENOB-HB-01, GV1001, CP101, DF-006, ALG-000184, ALG- 010133, ALG-125097, ALG-020572, and ALG-125755, or any combination thereof (including pharmaceutically acceptable salts of any of the foregoing).

[0169] The term “% w / w” or “% wt / wt” as used herein has its ordinary meaning as understood in light of the specification and refers to a percentage expressed in terms of the weight of the ingredient or agent over the total weight of the composition multiplied by 100. The term “% v / v” or “% vol / vol” as used herein has its ordinary meaning as understood in the light of the specification and refers to a percentage expressed in terms of the liquid volume of the compound, substance, ingredient, or agent over the total liquid volume of the composition multiplied by 100.EXAMPLES

[0170] Some aspects of the embodiments discussed above are disclosed in further detail in the following examples, which are not in any way intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. Those in the art will appreciate that many other embodiments also fall within the scope of the present disclosure, as it is described herein above and in the claims.

[0171] Hereinafter, the term “rt”, “r.t.” or “RT” means room temperature; “EtOAc” or “EA” means ethyl acetate; “MeCN” or “ACN” means acetonitrile; “Pd(dppf)C12.” means [l.l'-Bis(diphenylphosphino)ferrocene]-dichloropalladium(II); “PdCh(dtbpf)” or “Pd-118” means bis(di-tert-butylphosphino)ferrocene]-dichloropalladium(II); “Zn(OAc)2” means zinc(II) acetate; “TCFH” means N,N,N',N'-tetramethylchloroformamidinium hexafluorophosphate; “DBU” means l,8-diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec-7-ene; “NMI” means N- methylimidazole; “PE” means petroleum ether; “AcOK” or “KO Ac” means potassium acetate; “HO Ac” means acetic acid; “EtOH” means ethanol; “t-BuOH” means tert-butoxide; “DCM” means dichloromethane; “DMF” means dimethylformamide; “TBDPS” or “TBS” means tertbutyldiphenylsilyl; “EDCI” means l-ethyl-3-(3-dimehtylaminopropyl)carbodiimide; “Pin2B2” means bis(pinacolato)diboron; “DIEA” means A, A, -diisopropylethylamine; “DMAP” means 4-dimehtylaminopyridine; “TEA” means triethylamine; “(Boc)2O” means di-tert-butyl- dicarbonate; “HATU” means hexafluorophosphate azabenzotriazole tetramethyl uronium; “LC” means liquid chromatography; “LCMS” means Liquid Chromatography / Mass spectrometry; “HPLC” means high-performance liquid chromatography; “SFC” means supercritical fluid chromatography; “TFA” means trifluoroacetic acid; “min” means minute(s); “h” means hour(s); “v / v” means volume per volume.

[0172] For intermediates that were used in a next reaction step as a crude or as a partially purified intermediate, estimated mol amounts (in some cases indicated by ~) are indicated in the reaction protocols described below, or alternatively theoretical mol amounts are indicated.

[0173] The meanings of the abbreviations in the nuclear magnetic resonance spectra are provided as follows: s = singlet, d = doublet, dd = double doublet, dt = double triplet, ddd = doublet of doublets of doublets, Sept = septet, t = triplet, m = multiplet, br = broad, brs = broad singlet, q = quartet.Preparation of IntermediatesExample Al Preparation of Intermediate 1-1Intermediate 1-1

[0174] A mixture of 2-chloro-3-(4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-l,3,2-dioxaborolan-2- yl)aniline (2.1 g, 8.28 mmol), 1, 3 -dibromo-2- chlorobenzene (4.48 g, 16.6 mmol), Pd(dppf)Ch (606 mg, 828 pmol) and K2CO3 (3.43 g, 24.9 mmol) in dioxane (25 m ) and H2O (2.5 mL) was degassed and purged with N2 (3x). After stirring the mixture at 100 °C for 2 h under N2 atmosphere, the reaction was quenched with H2O (30 mL) and then extracted with EtOAc (3 x 30 mL). The combined organic layers were dried over Na2SO4, filtered and concentrated under reduced pressure to give a residue, which was purified by flash silica gel chromatography to give Intermediate 1-1 (1.4 g) as a yellow solid. MS: ES m / z calculated for CnHyBrCEN [M+H]+315.9, found 316.0.

[0175] The intermediates shown in Table 1 were prepared by an analogous reaction protocol as was used for the preparation of Intermediate 1-1 using the appropriate starting materials.Table 1Example A2Preparation of Intermediate 2-1Intermediate 1-1 Intermediate 2-1

[0176] A mixture of Intermediate 1-1 (52.5 g, 149 mmol), 2-methyl-3-oxo-2,3- dihydropyridazine-4-carboxylic acid (23 g, 149 mmol), N,N,N',N'- tetramethylchloroformamidinium hexafluorophosphate (TCFH, 83.7 g, 299 mmol) and N- methylimidazole (NMI, 29.7 mL, 373 mmol) in MeCN (500 mL) was purged with N2 three times. The mixture was stirred at 60 °C for 16 h under N2 atmosphere. The mixture was concentrated under reduced pressure to remove the solvent. The crude product was triturated with EtOAc at 25 °C for 30 min. Intermediate 2-1 (48 g, 95% purity) was obtained as a white solid. ' H NMR (400 MHz, DMSO-de) 8 12.35 (s, 1H), 8.61 (dd, J = 1.4, 8.3 Hz, 1H), 8.32- 8.20 (m, 2H), 7.87 (t, J = 4.8 Hz, 1H), 7.50 (t, J = 8.0 Hz, 1H), 7.44-7.37 (m, 2H), 7.16 (dd, J = 1.5, 7.6 Hz, 1H), 3.85 (s, 3H).Example A3 Preparation of Intermediate 2-2-

[0177] To a solution of Intermediate 1-2 (850 mg, 2.87 mmol) and 1,3-dimethyl- 2,4-dioxopyrimidine-5-carboxylic acid (580 mg, 3.15 mmol) in MeCN (8 mL) were added N,N,N',N' -tetramethylchloroformamidinium hexafluorophosphate (TCFH) (1.61 g, 5.73 mmol) and N-methylimidazole (NMI) (571 pL 7.16 mmol). The mixture was stirred at 50 °C for 16 h. The mixture was filtered, and the crude product was triturated with EtOAc (30 mL)at 25 °C for 10 min. The solid residue was filtered and dried to give Intermediate 2-2 (1 g) as a white solid.

[0178] The intermediates shown in Table 2 were prepared by an analogous reaction protocol as was used for the preparation of Intermediate 2-1 and Intermediate 2-2 using the appropriate starting materials.Table 2Example A4Preparation of Intermediate 3-1Intermediate 2-1 Intermediate 3-1

[0179] A mixture of Intermediate 2-1 (48 g,101 mmol), Bis(pinacolato)diboron (76.7 g, 302 mmol), AcOK (29.6 g, 302 mmol), Pd(dppf)Ch (5.89 g, 8.05 mmol) in dioxane (500 mL) was purged with N2 (3x), and the mixture was stirred at 100 °C for 16 h under N2 atmosphere. The mixture was concentrated under reduced pressure to remove the solvent. The residue was purified by column chromatography (SiCh, PE:EA = 100: 1 to 3:2). Compound 3- 1 (60 g) was obtained as a white solid.JH NMR (400 MHz, CDCh) 8 12.21 (s, 1H), 8.61 (dd, J = 1.4, 8.3 Hz, 1H), 8.32 (d, J = 4.1 Hz, 1H), 8.05 (d, J = 4.1 Hz, 1H), 7.70 (dd, J = 2.9, 6.4 Hz, 1H), 7.38-7.30 (m, 3H), 7.07-7.02 (m, 1H), 3.97-3.95 (m, 3H), 1.39 (s, 12H).Example A5 Preparation of Intermediate 3-2

[0180] A mixture of Intermediate 2-2 (1.0 g), Bis(pinacolato)diboron (823 mg, 3.24 mmol), KOAc (636 mg, 6.48 mmol) and Pd(dppf)Ch (158 mg, 216 pmol) in dioxane (10 m ) was degassed and purged with N2 (3x). The mixture was stirred at 100 °C for 16 h under N2 atmosphere. The mixture was filtered and concentrated under reduced pressure to give a residue, which was purified by flash silica gel column to give Intermediate 3-2 (780 mg) as a white solid. MS: ES m / z calculated for C26H30BCIN3O5 [M+H]+510.2, found 510.0.

[0181] The intermediates shown in Table 3 were prepared by an analogous reaction protocol as was used for the preparation of Intermediate 3-1 and Intermediate 3-2 using the appropriate starting materials.Table 3Example A6Preparation of Intermediate 4-1Intermediate 4-1-1 Intermediate 4-1

[0182] To a solution of Intermediate 4-1-1 (3 g, 6.40 mmol) and ethyl 3-methyl- 2,4-dioxo-l,2,3,4-tetrahydropyrimidine-5-carboxylate (1 g, 5.05 mmol) in DMF (15 mL) were added K2CO3 (2.09 g, 15.14 mmol) and KI (2.51 g, 15.14 mmol). The mixture was stirred at 70 °C for 40 h. The mixture was diluted with EtOAc (30 mL) and washed with brine (2 x 30 mL), dried over Na2SO4, filtered and concentrated under reduced pressure to give a residue, which was purified by flash silica gel chromatography to give Intermediate 4-1 (2.1 g) as a colorless oil. MS: ES m / z calculated for C27H35N20sSi [M+H]+495.2, found 495.2.

[0183] The intermediates shown in Table 4 were prepared by an analogous reaction protocol as was used for the preparation of Intermediate 4-1 using the appropriate starting materials.Table 4Example A7Preparation of Intermediate 5-1Intermediate 4-1 Intermediate 5-1

[0184] To a solution of Intermediate 4-1 (2.1 g, 4.25 mmol) in aqueous HCI (12M,10 mL) and HOAc (10 mL). The mixture was stirred at 40 °C for 16 h. The mixture was concentrated under reduced pressure to give a residue and then adjusted to pH~6 and lyophilized, Intermediate 5-1 (1.7 g, crude) was obtained as a yellow solid and used into the next step without further purification. MS: ES m / z calculated for C9H13N2O5 [M+H]+229.1, found 228.9.

[0185] The intermediates shown in Table 5 were prepared by an analogous reaction protocol as was used for the preparation of Intermediate 5-1 using the appropriate starting materials.Table 5Example A8Preparation of Intermediate 6-1Intermediate 6-1

[0186] A mixture of 2-methyl-3-oxo-2,3-dihydropyridazine-4-carboxylic acid (26.6 g, 173 mmol), 3-bromo-2-methylaniline (32.8 g, 176 mmol), N-methylimidazole (NMI, 28.3 g, 345 mmol) and N,N,N',N'-tetramethylchloroformamidinium hexafluorophosphate (TCFH, 121 g, 431 mmol) in MeCN (500 mL) was stirred at 65 °C for 12 h. The mixture was filtered and concentrated under reduced pressure to give a crude residue. The crude product was triturated with EtOAc (2 x 50 mL) to get Intermediate 6-1 (52.2 g) as a yellow solid.JH NMR (400 MHz, DMSO-t / e) 8 11.82 (s, 1H), 8.25 (d, J =4.4 Hz, 1H), 8.23 (d, J =4.0 Hz, 1H),8.19 (d, J = 8.0 Hz, 1H), 7.45 (d, J = 7.6 Hz, 1H), 7.20 (t, J = 8.0 Hz, 1H), 3.86 (s, 3H), 3.30 (s, 3H).

[0187] The intermediates shown in Table 6 were prepared by an analogous reaction protocol as was used for the preparation of Intermediate 6-1 using the appropriate starting materials.Table 6Example A9Preparation of Intermediate 7-1Intermediate 6-1 Intermediate 7-1

[0188] A mixture of Intermediate 6-1 (49.09 g, 153 mmol), PinzB2 (77.39 g, 304 mmol), Pd(dppf)Ch (5.57 g, 7.62 mmol) and KOAc (44.86 g, 457mmol) in dioxane (500 mL) was degassed and purged with N2 (3x), and then the mixture was stirred at 100 °C for 16 h under N2 atmosphere. The mixture was filtered and concentrated under reduced pressure to give a residue. The crude product was triturated with MTBE:hexane=l : 1 (160 mL). The crude product was triturated with hexane (70 mL) to give Intermediate 7-1 (60.79 g, 97.25% yield, 90% purity) as a black-brown solid.JH NMR (400 MHz, Chloroform-^) 8 11.62 (br s,lH), 8.40 - 8.24 (m, 2H), 8.04 (d, J= 4.1 Hz, 1H), 7.61 (d, J = 7.4 Hz,lH), 7.26 - 7.22 (m, 1H), 3.97 (s, 3H), 2.64 (s, 3H), 1.37 (s, 12H).

[0189] The intermediates shown in Table 7 were prepared by an analogous reaction protocol as was used for the preparation of Intermediate 7-1 using the appropriate starting materials.Table 7Example A10Preparation of Intermediate 8Intermediate 8-1 Intermediate 8

[0190] A mixture of 3-chloro-l-methoxy-5,6-dihydrocyclopenta[c]pyridin-7-one (7.0 g, 35 mmol), PinzB2 (18 g, 71 mmol), AcOK (10.4 g, 106 mmol) and PdCi2(dtbpf) (1.15 g, 1.77 mmol) in dioxane (70 mL) was degassed and purged with N2 (3x). The mixture was stirred at 90 °C for 16 h under N2 atmosphere. The mixture was filtered and concentrated under reduced pressure to give a residue, which was triturated with the mixture of methyl-tert-butyl ether and ethyl acetate(MTBE:EA = 3:1) at 15 °C for 16 h to give Intermediate 8-1 (15 g, crude) as a black oil, which was used for next step reaction without further purification.

[0191] A mixture of Intermediate 8-1 (15.00 g), l,3-dibromo-2-chloro-benzene (23.5 g, 87.0 mmol), K2CO3 (18.0 g, 130 mmol), Pd(dppf)Ch (3.18 g, 4.35 mmol) in dioxane (150 mL) was degassed and purged with N2(3x), and then the mixture was stirred at 100 °C for 12 h under N2 atmosphere. The mixture was filtered and concentrated under reduced pressure to give a residue, which was purified by flash silica gel chromatography to give Intermediate 8 (5 g) as a brown solid. MS: ES m / z calculated for CisH BrCINCh [M+H]+352.0, found 352.0.Example Al 1Preparation of Intermediates 27A and 27BIntermediate 27A Intermediate 27B

[0192] To a solution of Intermediate 8 (2 g, 5.67 mmol)and(lR,5S,6R)-rel-ethyl 3-azabicyclo[3.1 ,0]hexane-6-carboxylate hydrochloride (1.76 g, 11.34 mmol) in EtOH (22 mL) was stirred at 85 °C for 16 h. Once the mixture was cooled to 25 °C, NaBHsCN (1.07 g, 17.02 mmol) was added. The mixture was warmed to 85 °C and stirred for 32 h. The mixture was concentrated under reduced pressure to remove solvent. The residue was purified by column chromatography Intermediate 27 (2.2 g) was obtained as a colorless oil. MS: ES m / z calculated for C23H2sBrClN2O3 [M+H]+491.1, found 490.9.

[0193] Intermediate 27 was purified by SFC to give Intermediate 27A (980 mg) as a colorless oil and Intermediate 27B (970 mg) as a colorless oil. Under analytic SFC conditions (Column: Chiralpak OJ-3 50 x 4.6 mm I.D., 3 pm; Mobile phase: A: CO2 B: isopropanol (0.05% DEA); Gradient: from 5% to 40% of B in 2.5 min and hold 40% for 0.5 min, then 5% of B for 1 min; Flow rate: 4.0 mL / min; Column temp.: 35 °C; ABPR: 1500 psi), Intermediate 27A’s retention time is 1.24 min, and Intermediate 27B’s retention time is 1.55 mm.Preparation of CompoundsExample 1 Preparation of Compound B-l

[0194] To a solution of Intermediate 27B (220 mg, 447.33 pmol, 1 eq.) and Intermediate 7-1 (181.68 mg, 492.07 pmol, 1.1 eq.) in dioxane (4 mL) and lEO (0.4 mL) were added ditert-butyl(cyclopentyl)phosphane; di chloropalladium; iron (58.31 mg, 89.47 pmol, 0.2 eq.) and K2CO3 (185.48 mg, 1.34 mmol, 3 eq.) with N2. The mixture was stirred at 100 °C for 2 h. TLC (PE:EA=0: 1 ) indicated the reaction was completed and one new spot formed. LCMS showed 84% of desired mass was detected. The mixture was filtered and concentrated under reduced pressure to give a residue. The residue was purified by flash silica gel chromatography (ISCO®; 4 g SepaFlash® Silica Flash Column, Eluent of 0-100% EA / PE gradient @ 40 mL / min) and prep-HPLC (column: Xtimate C18 150*40mm*10um ; mobile phase: water(FA)-ACN,B%:10%-50%, 25min; 100% B Hold Time(5 min); Flow Rate(60 / min); Injections: !). Compound B-l (96.44 mg, 147.43 pmol, 26.79% yield, 100% purity) was obtained as a yellow solid. MS: ES m / z calculated for C36H36CIN5O5 [M+H]+654.24 found 654.7; 'H NMR (400 MHz, Chloroform- ) 8 11.71 (s, 1H), 8.40-8.29 (m, 2H), 8.13-8.01 (m, 1H), 7.63 (dd, J = 1.6, 7.6 Hz, 1H), 7.43-7.30 (m, 2H), 7.26 (d, J = 1.6 Hz, 1H), 7.18 (d, J = 4.0 Hz, 1H), 7.10-7.03 (m, 1H), 4.36 (s, 1H), 4.10 (q, J = 7.2 Hz, 2H), 4.02 (s, 3H), 3.96 (s, 3H), 3.20-3.02 (m, 2H), 2.96 (d, J = 8.5 Hz, 2H), 2.84-2.67 (m, 2H), 2.24 (d, J = 5.6 Hz, 3H), 2.15 (d, J = 6.0 Hz, 2H), 2.07 (s, 1H), 1.96 (s, 2H), 1.25 (t, J = 7.2 Hz, 3H).

[0195] The compounds shown in Table A-l were prepared by an analogous reaction protocol as was used for the preparation of Compound B-l using the appropriate starting materials.Table A-lExample 2Preparation of Compound C-1

[0196] A mixture of Compound B-l (90 mg, 130.70 pmol), aqueous HC1 (12 M, 0.5 mL) and CH3COOH (0.5 mL) was stirred at 45°C for 2 h. The mixture was concentrated under reduced pressure to give a residue. The residue was purified by prep-HPLC to giveCompound C-l (43mg) as a yellow solid. MS: ES m / z calculated for C34H32CIN5O5 [M+H]+626.2 found 626.2; 'H NMR (400 MHz, Chloroform- ) 8 11.71 (s, 1H), 8.38 - 8.30 (m, 2H), 8.06 (d, J = 4.4 Hz, 1H), 7.63 (dd, J = 1.6, 7.6 Hz, 1H), 7.40 (t, J= 7.6 Hz, 1H), 7.33 (t, J = 8.0 Hz, 1H), 7.25 (d, J= 1.6 Hz, 1H), 7.18 (d, J = 4.4 Hz, 1H), 7.06 (dd, J= 4.0, 6.8 Hz, 1H), 4.41 (s, 1H), 4.01 (s, 3H), 3.96 (s, 3H), 3.18 (d, J = 9.2 Hz, 1H), 3.12 - 2.95 (m, 3H), 2.82 - 2.71 (m, 2H), 2.24 (d, J= 5.6 Hz, 3H), 2.21 - 2.13 (m, 2H), 2.09 (s, 1H), 2.01 (s, 2H).

[0197] The compounds shown in Table A-2 was prepared by an analogous reaction protocol as was used for the preparation of Compound C-l using the appropriate starting materials.Table A-2Example ALCMS (Liquid chromatography / Mass spectrometry)

[0198] The High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) measurement was performed using a LC pump, a diode-array (DAD) or a UV detector and a column as specified in the respective methods. If necessary, additional detectors were included (see table of methods below). Plow from the column was brought to the Mass Spectrometer (MS) which was configured with an atmospheric pressure ion source. It is within the knowledge of the skilled person to set the tune parameters (e.g., scanning range, dwell time) in order to obtain ions allowing the identification of the compound's nominal monoisotopic molecular weight(MW). Data acquisition was performed with appropriate software. Compounds are described by their experimental retention times (Rt) and ions. If not specified differently in the table of data, the reported molecular ion corresponds to the [M+H]+(protonated molecule) and / or [M- H]'(deprotonated molecule). In case the compound was not directly ionizable the type of adduct is specified (i.e. [M+NT ] , [M+Na]+, [M+HCOO]', etc.). For molecules with multiple isotopic patterns (Br, CI), the reported value is the one obtained for the lowest isotope mass. All results were obtained with experimental uncertainties that are commonly associated with the method used. Hereinafter, "SQD" means Single Quadrupole Detector, "MSD" Mass Selective Detector, "RT" room temperature, "BEH" bridged ethylsiloxane / silica hybrid, "DAD" Diode Array Detector, "HSS" High Strength silica., "Q-Tof Quadrupole Time-off light mass spectrometers, "CLND", ChemiLuminescent Nitrogen Detector, "ELSD" Evaporative Light Scanning Detector.Table 8: LCMS Method CodesFlow expressed in mL / min; column temperature (T) in °C; Run time in min.Table 9: LCMS ResultsRetention time (Rt,) in min; LC / MS: without indication the mass is corresponding to [M+H]+.Example B PDL1 / PD1 Binding Assay

[0199] Compounds to be tested were serially diluted in DMSO, and further diluted in assay buffer (25 mMHepes pH 7.4, 150 mMNaCl, 0.005% Tween 20, BSA 0.01%). Diluted compounds were added to the wells with final concentration of DMSO at 1%. PDLl-6xHis protein was added to the wells, mixed well with compound. The plates were incubated for 30 min at RT. PDl-Fc-Avi-B iotin protein was added to the wells. Final concentration of PDL1 and PD1 protein is 0.3 nM and 2.5 nM, respectively. After a binding time of 30 min at RT, Anti-6xHis Acceptor beads (final concentration 20 pg / ml) were added to the wells, and the incubation continued for 1 h. Streptavidin Donor beads (final concentration 20 pg / mL) were added at reduced light. The plates were sealed with foil and incubated in the dark for additional 1 h or overnight before reading on an Envision reader. The ICso values were determined by fitting the curves using a four-parameter equation in Graphpad Prism 8.Example C PD-1 / PD-L1 NF AT Reporter Assay

[0200] Cellular activity of the compounds was assessed using a co-culture reporter assay in which TCR-mediated NF AT activity of Jurkat T cells is constitutively inhibited by the engagement of PD-1 by PD-L1 expressing CHO cells. Blocking the PD-1 / PD-L1 interaction will release the inhibitory signal and results in TCR signaling and NFAT-mediated luciferase activity.

[0201] CHO cells expressing surface-bound anti-CD3 antibodies and PD-L1 were first seeded overnight and treated with the compounds. Jurkat cells overexpressing PD-1 and a luciferase construct under NF AT promoter were then immediately seeded on the monolayer of CHO cells. The co-culture was then incubated for 6 h at 37 °C. Luciferase activity was assessed by adding the ONE-Glo reagent and measuring luminescence with a plate reader. EC50 values were determined from the fit of the dose-response curves.

[0202] Compounds described herein, as exemplified in the Examples, showed ECso or ICso values in the following ranges: A: IC50 or EC50 <10 nM; B: 10 nM < IC50 or EC50 <100 nM; C: 100 nM < IC50 or EC50 <1000 nM; D: 1000 nM < IC50 or EC50 <10000 nM; E: IC50 or EC50 > 10000 nM; n.d. = not determined; n.r. = EC50 not reached in the range of testedconcentrations starting from 1 nM to 5000 nM. As shown by the data in Table 10, the compounds described herein are active for controlling expression of PD-L1.Table 10

[0203] Although the foregoing has been described in some detail by way of illustrations and examples for purposes of clarity and understanding, it will be understood by those of skill in the art that numerous and various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure. Therefore, it should be clearly understood that the forms disclosed herein are illustrative only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure, but rather to also cover all modification and alternatives coming with the true scope and spirit of the present disclosure.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A compound of Formula (I), or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, having the structure:X1is selected from the group consisting of CH and N;Y1is selected from the group consisting of N and CR3c;Y2is CR3e;Y3is CR3f;Rlais selected from the group consisting of -Ci-4 alkyl, -Ci-4 haloalkyl, -CH2(Cs-6 monocyclic cycloalkyl), -C2-4 alkyl(O-Ci-4 alkyl), -C2-4 alkyl(OCi-4 haloalkyl), -CH2(4-6 membered monocyclic heterocyclyl) and -CH2(5-6 membered monocyclic heteroaryl);R2a, R2b, R2c, R2e, R2g, R2hare independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen and halogen;R2dand R2fare independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, halogen, cyano, -CH3, -CH2CH3, -CH2OH, -OCH3 and -SCH3;R3ais selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, -CH3, -C2-4 alkyl and -C2-4 haloalkyl, wherein the -C2-4 alkyl is optionally substituted with one or two or three substituents independently selected from hydroxy, and -OR3al;R3alis -C1-4 alkyl;R3bis selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, -CH3, -C2-4 alkyl and -C2-4 haloalkyl;R3Cis selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, -CH3, -C2-4 alkyl and -C2-4 haloalkyl;R3dis selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, -CH3, -C2-4 alkyl and -C2-4 haloalkyl;R3eis selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, halogen and -CH3;R3fis selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, halogen, -OH, -CN and -CH3;RZ1is selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, -C1-4 alkyl and -C1-4 haloalkyl, wherein the -C1-4 alkyl is optionally substituted with one or two or three substituents independently selected from hydroxy, and -ORZ3;RZ3is -C1-4 alkyl; andRX3is -C(=O)ORZ1.

2. The compound of Claim 1, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein RZ1is hydrogen.

3. The compound of Claim 1, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein RZ1is -C1-4 alkyl.

4. The compound of Claim 1, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein RZ1is -C1-4 haloalkyl.

5. The compound of any one of Claims 1-4, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein X1is N.

6. The compound of any one of Claims 1-5, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein Rlais -C1-4 alkyl.

7. The compound of Claim 6, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein Rlais -CH3.

8. The compound of any one of Claims 1-5, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein Rlais -Ci-4 haloalkyl.

9. The compound of any one of Claims 1-5, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein Rlais -CH2(C3-6 monocyclic cycloalkyl), -CH2(4-6 membered monocyclic heterocyclyl) or -CH2(5-6 membered monocyclic heteroaryl).

10. The compound of any one of Claims 1-5, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein Rlais -C2-4 alkyl(OCi-4 alkyl) or -C2-4 alkyl(OCi-4 haloalkyl).

11. The compound of any one of Claims 1 - 10, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein12. The compound of Claim 11, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R3dis hydrogen.

13. The compound of Claim 11, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R3dis -CH3.

14. The compound of Claim 11, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R3dis -C2-4 alkyl.

15. The compound of Claim 11, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R3dis -C1-4 haloalkyl.

16. The compound of any one of Claims 11-15, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein Y2is CR3e, wherein R3eis hydrogen.

17. The compound of any one of Claims 11-15, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein Y2is CR3e, wherein R3eis halogen.

18. The compound of any one of Claims 11-15, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein Y2is CR3e, wherein R3eis -CH3.

19. The compound of any one of Claims 11-18, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein Y3is CR3f, wherein R3fis hydrogen.

20. The compound of any one of Claims 11-18, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein Y3is CR3f, wherein R3fis halogen.

21. The compound of any one of Claims 11-18, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein Y3is CR3f, wherein R3fis -OH.

22. The compound of any one of Claims 11-18, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein Y3is CR3f, wherein R3fis -CN.

23. The compound of any one of Claims 11-18, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein Y3is CR3f, wherein R3fis -CH3.

24. The compound of any one of Claims 1 - 10, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein25. The compound of Claim 24, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein Y1is CR3c, wherein R3cis hydrogen.

26. The compound of Claim 24, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein Y1is CR3c, wherein R3cis -CH3.

27. The compound of Claim 24, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein Y1is CR3c, wherein R3cis -C2-4 alkyl.

28. The compound of Claim 24, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein Y1is CR3c, wherein R3cis -C2-4 haloalkyl.

29. The compound of any one of Claims 24-28, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R3bis hydrogen.

30. The compound of any one of Claims 24-28, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R3bis -CH3.

31. The compound of any one of Claims 24-28, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R3bis -C2-4 alkyl.

32. The compound of any one of Claims 24-28, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R3bis -C2-4 haloalkyl.

33. The compound of any one of Claims 24-32, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R3ais hydrogen.

34. The compound of any one of Claims 24-32, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R3ais -CH3.

35. The compound of any one of Claims 24-32, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R3ais-C2-4 alkyl optionally substituted with one or two or three substituents independently selected from hydroxy and -OR3al.

36. The compound of any one of Claims 24-32, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R3ais -C2-4 haloalkyl.

37. The compound of Claim 24, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein38. The compound of Claim 24, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein39. The compound of Claim 24, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein40. The compound of Claim 24, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein41. The compound of any one of Claims 1 -40, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R2a, R2b, R2gand R2hare each hydrogen.

42. The compound of any one of Claims 1 -41 , or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R2dand R2fare each halogen.

43. The compound of any one of Claims 1 -41 , or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R2dis -CH3; and R2fis halogen.

44. The compound of Claim 42 or 43, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein the halogen is chloro.

45. The compound of any one of Claims 1 -44, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R2cand R2eare each hydrogen.

46. The compound of any one of Claims 1 -44, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R2cis halogen and R2eis hydrogen.

47. The compound of any one of Claims 1 -44, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R2eis halogen and R2cis hydrogen.

48. The compound of Claim 46 or 47, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein the halogen is fluoro.a pharmaceutically acceptable salt of any of the foregoing.wherein the compound is selected from:pharmaceutically acceptable salt of any of the foregoing.

51. A pharmaceutical composition comprising an effective amount of a compound of any one of Claims 1-50, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and an excipient.

52. A method for treating hepatitis B in a subject comprising administering to the subject in need thereof an effective amount of a compound of Claims 1-50, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.

53. A method for treating hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in a subject comprising administering to the subject in need thereof an effective amount of a compound of Claims 1- 50, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.

54. The method of any one of Claims 52-53, further comprising administering surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, hormonal therapy, or antiviral therapy.

55. A compound of any one of Claims 1-50, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, for use in treating hepatitis B.

56. A compound of any one of Claims 1-50, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, for use in treating hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

57. The compound of any one of Claims 55-56, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein the use further comprises administering surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, hormonal therapy, or antiviral therapy.

58. Use of a compound of any one of Claims 1-50, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, in the preparation of a medicament for use in treating hepatitis B.

59. Use of a compound of any one of Claims 1 -50, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, in the preparation of a medicament for use in treating hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

60. The use of any one of Claims 58-59, further comprising administering surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, hormonal therapy, or antiviral therapy.

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