Computational Engineering of Malonate and Tetrazole Derivatives Targeting SARS-CoV-2 Main Protease: Pharmacokinetics, Docking, and Molecular Dynamics Insights to Support the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with a Bibliometric Analysis
Abstract
This research applies computational engineering to explore malonate and tetrazole derivatives as potential inhibitors of the SARS-CoV-2 Main Protease. A comprehensive in silico approach, including pharmacokinetics prediction, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics simulations, was utilized to evaluate the drug-likeness, binding affinity, and stability of the designed compounds. The malonate derivatives demonstrated strong interaction stability with the target protease and exhibited favorable pharmacokinetic profiles with minimal predicted toxicity, supporting their potential as therapeutic candidates. A bibliometric analysis was also performed to position this study within the broader scientific landscape, showing increasing global interest in SARS-CoV-2 protease inhibitors and antiviral drug development. This work aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals by contributing to global health improvement and fostering innovation in pharmaceutical engineering. The promising computational outcomes underscore the need for further experimental validation to confirm therapeutic efficacy and safety, potentially contributing to future antiviral treatment strategies.
Keywords
Full Text:
PDFReferences
Sharma, A., Tiwari, S., Deb, M. K., and Marty, J. L. (2020). Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2): A global pandemic and treatment strategies. International Journal of Antimicrobial Agents, 56(2), 106054.
Muryanti, L., Fitria, L.N., Hanaya, G., and Triawan, F. (2021). Foldable bed design concept for covid-19 patient: A machine design case study. ASEAN Journal of Science and Engineering, 1(2), 113-126.
Pingak, C.T.R., Octaviani, M.A., Yuenan, G.C., and Triawan, F. (2022). Bed-stretcher for burial process of covid-19 corpse: A preliminary design and strength analysis. ASEAN Journal of Science and Engineering, 2(1), 105-114.
Chandra, C.E., and Abdullah, S. (2023). Jakarta COVID-19 forecast with bayesian PIRD multiwave model. ASEAN Journal of Science and Engineering, 3(3), 227-242.
Al Husaeni, D.N. (2022). Bibliometric analysis of briquette research trends during the covid-19 pandemic. ASEAN Journal for Science and Engineering in Materials, 1(2), 99-106.
Nasution, A.R., and Nandiyanto, A.B.D. (2021). Utilization of the google meet and quiziz applications in the assistance and strengthening process of online learning during the Covid-19 pandemic. Indonesian Journal of Educational Research and Technology, 1(2), 31-34.
Ammatulloh, M.I., Permana, N., Firmansyah, R., Sa’adah, L.N., Izzatunnisa, Z.I., and Muthaqin, D.I. (2022). Strengthening character education of students through civics caring apps based on m-learning during the covid-19 pandemic. Indonesian Journal of Educational Research and Technology, 2(2), 87-96.
Abubakar, B.D., Kayode, F.E., Abiodun, M.H., Samson, A.B., and Abdulrasaq, A. (2022). Social media efficacy on prevention and control of covid-19 pandemic in Ilorin South Local Government Area, Kwara state. Indonesian Journal of Educational Research and Technology, 2(3), 195-204.
Fahrannisa, A.L., Muktiarni, M., and Mupita, J. (2022). The use of short stories as learning media for character education for elementary school students during the Covid-19 pandemic. Indonesian Journal of Multidiciplinary Research, 2(2), 237-244.
Azzahra, S., Maryanti, R., and Wulandary, V. (2022). Problems faced by elementary school students in the online learning process during the Covid-19 pandemic. Indonesian Journal of Multidiciplinary Research, 2(2), 245-256.
Ardiana, A., Nandiyanto, Kurniawan, T., and Bilad, M.R. (2022). Implementation of sticky note learning media to increase reading interest in 5th-grade students towards lesson books in the pandemic of Covid 19. Indonesian Journal of Multidiciplinary Research, 2(2), 265-270.
Babalola, E.O., Otunla, F.L., and Omolafe, E.V. (2023). Undergraduates’ level of acceptance and utilization of moodle platform for learning during covid-19 pandemic. Indonesian Journal of Multidiciplinary Research, 3(1), 31-40.
Pena, H.J.P.D., Galindez, G.C., Sanduyogan, S.A., Vicente, S.S., and Organia, E.G. (2023). Lived experiences of overseas filipino nurses in western and middle-eastern countries amidst the covid-19 pandemic. Indonesian Journal of Multidiciplinary Research, 3(2), 319-330.
Ariyanti, N.D.S., and Maryanti, R. (2021). Developing the creativity of elementary school students in Cimahi, Indonesia through online learning media during the covid-19 pandemic. Indonesian Journal of Teaching in Science, 2(1), 7-16.
Pandoy, L.K.L., Diaz, Z.O.M.H., Salem, K.J.G., Damaso, J.M., Cabaylo, R.M., and Abo, C.P. (2022). Science teachers’ lived experiences and challenges during covid-19 pandemic. Indonesian Journal of Teaching in Science, 2(2), 155-174.
Saputra, H., Albar, C. N., and Soegoto, D. S. (2022). Bibliometric analysis of computational chemistry research and its correlation with covid-19 pandemic. Moroccan Journal of Chemistry, 10(1), 37-49.
Weiss, S. R., and Navas-Martin, S. (2005). Coronavirus pathogenesis and the emerging pathogen severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus. Microbiology and Molecular Biology Reviews, 69(4), 635-664.
Mohanty, S. K., Satapathy, A., Naidu, M. M., Mukhopadhyay, S., Sharma, S., Barton, L. M., and Parwani, A. V. (2020). Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) and coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19)-anatomic pathology perspective on current knowledge. Diagnostic Pathology, 15, 1-17.
Khan, M. T., Irfan, M., Ahsan, H., Ahmed, A., Kaushik, A. C., Khan, A. S., and Wei, D. Q. (2021). Structures of SARS-CoV-2 RNA-binding proteins and therapeutic targets. Intervirology, 64(2), 55-68.
More-Adate, P., Lokhande, K. B., Swamy, K. V., Nagar, S., and Baheti, A. (2022). GC-MS profiling of Bauhinia variegata major phytoconstituents with computational identification of potential lead inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2 Mpro. Computers in Biology and Medicine, 147, 105679.
Merzouki, M., Bourassi, L., Abidi, R., Bouammali, B., Sabbahi, R., and Challioui, A. (2024). Deciphering the SARS-CoV-2 delta variant: Antiviral compound efficacy by molecular Docking, ADMET, and Dynamics studies. Moroccan Journal of Chemistry, 12(3), 1153-1171.
Merzouki, M., Challioui, A., Bourassi, L., Abidi, R., Bouammli, B., and El Farh, L. (2023). In silico evaluation of antiviral activity of flavone derivatives and commercial drugs against SARS-CoV-2 main protease (3CLpro). Moroccan Journal of Chemistry, 11(1), 129-143.
Hammoudan, I., Chtita, S., Bakhouch, M., and Temsamani, D. R. (2022). QSAR study of a series of peptidomimetic derivatives towards MERS-CoV inhibitors. Moroccan Journal of Chemistry, 10(3), 405-416.
Kawsar, S. M. A., Ferdous, J., Hossain, M. K., Kumer, A., Akash, S., and Chakma, U. (2023). Molecular docking against SARS-CoV-2 variants, antiviral, dynamics and quantum chemical modeling of mannopyranoside derivatives. Moroccan Journal of Chemistry, 11(04), 1266-1286.
Veerasamy, R., Seenivasa, R., Thangavelu, P., Rajak, H., and Pavadai, P. (2025). In silico docking, drug-likeness and toxicity prediction studies of bioactive compounds of eurycoma longifolia as potential multi-targeted antiviral agents against SARS-CoV-2. Moroccan Journal of Chemistry, 13(1), 381-404.
Bourhou, C., Benouda, H., Bellaouchi, R., Merzouki, M., Fraj, E., Harit, T., and Bouammali, B. (2023). Synthesis of novel tetrazolic derivatives and evaluation of their antimicrobial activity. Journal of Molecular Structure, 1278, 134913.
Fraj, E., Hassiba, M., Bouammali, H., Merzouki, M., Bourhou, C., Zughaier, S. M., and Bouammali, B. (2025). Design, Synthesis, and Anti‐Inflammatory Evaluation In Vitro and In Silico of Novel Flavone Derivatives. Chemistry Select, 10(9), e202405663.
Hasan, A. H., Hussen, N. H., Shakya, S., Jamalis, J., Pratama, M. R. F., Chander, S., and Murugesan, S. (2022). In silico discovery of multi-targeting inhibitors for the COVID-19 treatment by molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulation studies, and ADMET predictions. Structural Chemistry, 33(5), 1645-1665.
Wihadi, M. N. K., Merzouki, M., Ma'arif, A. S., Grasianto, G., and Santosa, S. J. (2024). Insights of auric ion adsorption in the presence of ferric and hexavalent chromium species on Mg/Al layered double hydroxides. Moroccan Journal of Chemistry, 12(2), 854-869.
Alshahateet, S. F., Altarawneh, R. M., Al-Tawarh, W. M., Al-Trawneh, S. A., Al-Taweel, S., Azzaoui, K., and Jodeh, S. (2024). Catalytic green synthesis of Tin (IV) oxide nanoparticles for phenolic compounds removal and molecular docking with EGFR tyrosine kinase. Scientific Reports, 14(1), 6519.
Loukili, E. H., Merzouki, M., Taibi, M., Elbouzidi, A., Hammouti, B., Yadav, K. K., and Choi, J. R. (2024). Phytochemical, biological, and nutritional properties of the prickly pear, Opuntia dillenii: A review. Saudi Pharmaceutical Journal, 32(10), 102167.
Bouakline, H., Bouknana, S., Merzouki, M., Ziani, I., Challioui, A., Bnouham, M., and El Bachiri, A. (2024). The phenolic content of pistacia lentiscus leaf extract and its antioxidant and antidiabetic properties. The Scientific World Journal, 2024(1), 1998870.
Boumezzourh, A., Ouknin, M., Merzouki, M., Dabbous-Wach, A., Hammouti, B., Umoren, P. S., and Majidi, L. (2023). Acetylcholinesterase, Tyrosinase, α-Glucosidase inhibition by Ammodaucus leucotrichus Coss. & Dur. Fruits Essential oil and ethanolic extract and molecular docking analysis. Moroccan Journal of Chemistry, 11(04), 11-4.
Mili, A., Das, S., Nandakumar, K., and Lobo, R. (2023). Molecular docking and dynamics guided approach to identify potential anti-inflammatory molecules as NRF2 activator to protect against drug-induced liver injury (DILI): A computational study. Journal of Biomolecular Structure and Dynamics, 41(19), 9193-9210.
Kerans, G., Sanjaya, Y., Liliasari, L., Pamungkas, J., and Ate, G., Y. (2024). Effect of substrate and water on cultivation of Sumba seaworm (nyale) and experimental practicum design for improving critical and creative thinking skills of prospective science teacher in biology and supporting sustainable development goals (SDGs). ASEAN Journal of Science and Engineering, 4(3), 383-404.
Makinde, S.O., Ajani, Y.A., and Abdulrahman, M.R. (2024). Smart learning as transformative impact of technology: A paradigm for accomplishing sustainable development goals (SDGs) in education. Indonesian Journal of Educational Research and Technology, 4(3), 213-224.
Gemil, K.W., Na’ila, D.S., Ardila, N.Z., and Sarahah, Z.U. (2024). The relationship of vocational education skills in agribusiness processing agricultural products in achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs). ASEAN Journal of Science and Engineering Education, 4(2), 181-192.
Haq, M.R.I., Nurhaliza, D.V., Rahmat, L.N., and Ruchiat, R.N.A. (2024). The influence of environmentally friendly packaging on consumer interest in implementing zero waste in the food industry to meet sustainable development goals (SDGs) needs. ASEAN Journal of Economic and Economic Education, 3(2), 111-116.
Basnur, J., Putra, M.F.F., Jayusman, S.V.A., and Zulhilmi, Z. (2024). Sustainable packaging: Bioplastics as a low-carbon future step for the sustainable development goals (SDGs). ASEAN Journal for Science and Engineering in Materials, 3(1), 51-58.
Maulana, I., Asran, M.A., and Ash-Habi, R.M. (2023). Implementation of sustainable development goals (SDGs) no. 12: Responsible production and consumption by optimizing lemon commodities and community empowerment to reduce household waste. ASEAN Journal of Community Service and Education, 2(2), 141-146.
Nurnabila, A.T., Basnur, J., Rismayani, R., Ramadhani, S., and Zulhilmi, Z. (2023). Analysis of the application of mediterranean diet patterns on sustainability to support the achievement of sustainable development goals (SDGs): Zero hunger, good health and well beings, responsible consumption, and production. ASEAN Journal of Agricultural and Food Engineering, 2(2), 105-112.
Awalussillmi, I., Febriyana, K.R., Padilah, N., and Saadah, N.A. (2023). Efforts to improve sustainable development goals (SDGs) through education on diversification of food using infographic: Animal and vegetable protein. ASEAN Journal of Agricultural and Food Engineering, 2(2), 113-120.
Rahmah, F.A., Nurlaela, N., Anugrah, R., and Putri, Y.A.R. (2024). Safe food treatment technology: The key to realizing the sustainable development goals (SDGs) zero hunger and optimal health. ASEAN Journal of Agricultural and Food Engineering, 3(1), 57-66.
Keisyafa, A., Sunarya, D.N., Aghniya, S.M., and Maula, S.P. (2024). Analysis of student’s awareness of sustainable diet in reducing carbon footprint to support sustainable development goals (SDGs) 2030. ASEAN Journal of Agricultural and Food Engineering, 3(1), 67-74.
Nandiyanto, A. B. D., Kaniawati, I., Kurniawan, T., Farobie, O., and Bilad, M. R. (2024). Chemical reaction mechanism from pyrolysis degradation of polystyrene styrofoam plastic microparticles based on FTIR and GC-MS completed with bibliometric literature review to support sustainable development goals (SDGs). Moroccan Journal of Chemistry, 12(3), 1380-1398.
Nandiyanto, A. B. D., Putri, N. R., Salimah, N. N., Al’Hafsah, S. H., Yunatraya, S. A., Fiandini, M., and Sukrawan, Y. (2025). Utilizing Cassava Peel-Derived Carbon Biochar for Ammonia Adsorption to Support Hydrogen Storage and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Effect of Microparticle Size and Isothermal Analysis. Moroccan Journal of Chemistry, 13(1), 424-439.
Nandiyanto, A. B. D., Firdaus, N. N., Anzety, N. D., Fiandini, M., Farobie, O., Bilad, M. R., and Sukrawan, Y. (2025). Carbon Biochar Microparticles from Mango Peel as a Sustainable Adsorbent for Ammonia Storage in Supporting Hydrogen Energy Systems and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Moroccan Journal of Chemistry, 13(2), 531-548.
Nandiyanto, A. B. D., Fitriani, A. F., Pradana, R. A., Ragadhita, R., Azzaoui, K., and Piantari, E. (2024). Green innovation in brake pad production: Harnessing teak powder and clam shells as sustainable alternatives for subtractive residual waste. Moroccan Journal of Chemistry, 12(2), 714-733.
Nandiyanto, A. B. D., Ragadhita, R., and Anggiat, L. S. (2024). Synthesis of barium oxide nanoparticles: Optical properties and application in degradation indigotine dye. Moroccan Journal of Chemistry, 12(2), 627-642.
Cordina, R. J., Smith, B., and Tuttle, T. (2023). COGITO: A coarse-grained force field for the simulation of macroscopic properties of triacylglycerides. Journal of Chemical Theory and Computation, 19(4), 1333-1341.
Rochman, S., Rustaman, N., Ramalis, T.R., Amri, K., Zukmadini, A.Y., Ismail, I., and Putra, A.H. (2024). How bibliometric analysis using VOSviewer based on artificial intelligence data (using ResearchRabbit Data) : Explore research trends in hydrology content. ASEAN Journal of Science and Engineering, 4(2), 251-294.
Al Husaeni, D.F., and Nandiyanto, A.B.D. (2022). Bibliometric using VOSviewer with publish or perish (using google scholar data) : From step-by-step processing for users to the practical examples in the analysis of digital learning articles in pre and post covid-19 pandemic. ASEAN Journal of Science and Engineering, 2(1), 19-46.
Al Husaeni, D.N., and Al Husaeni, D.F. (2022). How to calculate bibliometric using VOSviewer with Publish or Perish (using Scopus data): Science education keywords. Indonesian Journal of Educational Research and Technology, 2(3), 247-274.
Abbaoui, Z., Merzouki, M., Oualdi, I., Bitari, A., Oussaid, A., Challioui, A., and Diño, W. A. (2024). Alzheimer's disease: In silico study of rosemary diterpenes activities. Current Research in Toxicology, 6, 100159.
Bekkouch, A., Merzouki, M., El Mostafi, H., Elhessni, A., Challioui, A., Mesfioui, A., and Touzani, R. (2024). Potential inhibition of ALDH by argan oil compounds, computational approach by docking, ADMET and molecular dynamics. Moroccan Journal of Chemistry, 12(2), 676-695.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.17509/ijost.v10i2.85146
Refbacks
- There are currently no refbacks.
Copyright (c) 2025 Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International License.
Indonesian Journal of Science and Technology is published by UPI.
View My Stats