Biologically active binaphthol-scaffolded imidazolium salts†
Abstract
This work describes the antimicrobial activity and selectivity for Gram-positive bacteria of imidazolium-functionalized binols, as a result of their insertion into the lipid membrane and alteration of its permeability. The most potent compound displayed micromolar minimal inhibitory concentrations against Gram-positive Bacillus thuringiensis and Listeria seeligeri. At these concentrations, the rate of survival after 24 hours of mammalian cells was superior to 90% of that measured in the absence of these compounds and its haemolysis percentage was only about 10%.