Pyridine-2,6-Dicarboxamide Proligands and their Cu(II)/Zn(II) Complexes Targeting Staphylococcus Aureus for the Attenuation of In Vivo Dental Biofilm

In the pursuit to combat stubborn bacterial infections, particularly those stemming from gram-positive bacteria, this study is an attempt to craft a precision-driven platform characterized by unparalleled selectivity, specificity, and synergistic antimicrobial mechanisms. Leveraging remarkable potential of metalloantibiotics in antimicrobial applications, herein, this work rationally designs, synthesizes, and characterizes a new library of Pyridine-2,6-dicarboxamide ligands and their corresponding transition metal Cu(II)/Zn(II) complexes. The lead compound L11 demonstrates robust antibacterial properties against Staphylococcus aureus (Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) = 2-16 µg mL-1), methicillin and vancomycin-resistant S. aureus (MIC = 2-4 µg mL-1) and exhibit superior antibacterial activity when compared to FDA-approved vancomycin, the drug of last resort. Additionally, the compound exhibits notable antimicrobial efficacy against resistant enterococcus strains (MIC = 2-8 µg mL-1). To unravel mechanistic profile, advanced imaging techniques including SEM and AFM are harnessed, collectively suggesting a mechanistic pathway involving cell wall disruption. Live/dead fluorescence studies further confirm efficacy of L11 and its complexes against S. aureus membranes. This translational exploration extends to a rat model, indicating promising in vivo therapeutic potential. Thus, this comprehensive research initiative has capabilities to transcends the confines of this laboratory, heralding a pivotal step toward combatting antibiotic-resistant pathogens and advancing the frontiers of metalloantibiotics-based therapy with a profound clinical implication.