The closed S3 is the only significant conformational difference compared to a recently reported structure of SARS CoV-2 3CLpro inhibited by α-ketoamides.8 The energetics of this extended interaction, the associated protein conformation stabilities, or warhead difference may contribute to the 3-order-of-magnitude increased SARS CoV-2 3CLpro potency of HMK 4 (see below) compared to that of the referenced ketoamides.