Synthesis of riccardin D derivatives as potent antimicrobial agents

We describe the synthesis and biological evaluation of riccardin D derivatives, a novel class of antimicrobial molecules. Structural diversification of these derivatives was achieved by introducing hydroxy, methoxy, and bromine into the aromatic rings of riccardin D. The antimicrobial evaluation of these compounds was performed as in vitro assays against clinically isolated bacteria and fungi. The introduction of bromine atom into the arene B of riccardin D led to several strongly active antibacterial compounds with a MIC value ranging from 0.5 to 4μg/mL for Staphylococcus aureus, both methicillin-sensitive and -resistant strains. Antifungal tests found compound 34 was the most potent molecule with a MIC value of 2μg/mL against Candida albicans. This initial biological evaluation suggests that these novel molecules merit further investigation as potential antimicrobial agents.