Synthesis of AZTpSpCX2ppSA and AZTpSpCX2ppSAZT: hydrolysis-resistant potential inhibitors of the AZT excision reaction of HIV-1 RT.

We report an efficient, one-flask route for synthesis of AZTpSpCX2ppSA and AZTpSpCX2ppSAZT, where X=H and X=F. This route makes use of the differential susceptibility to oxidation of H-phosphonate mono- and diesters, to allow a series of sequential reactions without requiring isolation of intermediates. These compounds are hydrolysis-resistant versions of the AZTppppA that results from excision of AZT by AZT-resistant HIV reverse transcriptase (RT). This family of compounds may therefore be useful in further study of the AZT excision reaction, as well as in drug design.