Substituted 3-((Z)-2-(4-nitrophenyl)-2-(1H-tetrazol-5-yl) vinyl)-4H-chromen-4-ones as novel anti-MRSA agents: Synthesis, SAR, and in-vitro assessment

In search for a new antibacterial agent with improved antimicrobial spectrum and potency, we designed and synthesized a series of novel 3-((Z)-2-(4-nitrophenyl)-2-(1H-tetrazol-5-yl) vinyl)-4H-chromen-4-ones 7a–h by convergent synthesis approach. All the synthesized compounds were assayed for their in-vitro antibacterial activities against gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria. The preliminary structure-activity relationship, to elucidate the essential structure requirements for the antimicrobial activity that results into anti-MRSA (methicillin-resistant S. aureus) potential, has been described. Amongst the synthesized compounds 7d, 7e, 7f and 7h were found to possess activity against methicillin-resistant S. aureus in addition to the activity against other bacterial strains such as E. faecalis, S. pneumoniae, and E. coli.

Graphical abstractThe synthesis of the potent antibacterial tetrazolyl chromones 7a–h is reported. Introduction of a ‘–F’ at R2 and –Cl at R2, and R4 position led to compounds having anti-MRSA (methicillin resistant S. aureus) potential and antibacterial superior to Gentamicin, Erythromycin, Ampicillin and Ciprofloxacin.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide