# Synthesis and Evaluation of Antimicrobial Activity of Nitrones from Derivatives of Aryl-Substituted Dihydroisoquinoline

Authors: Mouna Bouzid; Raed Abdennabi; Mohamed Damak; Majed Kammoun
Journal: Journal of Chemistry
 (2015)

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## Abstract

This paper describes the synthesis of a series of dihydroisoquinoline nitrones by isomerization of the corresponding oxaziridines. Nitrones4a–c were obtained in excellent yields and high purity by a simple and effective method from the isomerization of oxaziridines. The synthesized compounds were also evaluated for their antibacterial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and fungus.


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## Body

## 1. Introduction

Nitrones were first used to trap free radicals in chemical systems and then subsequently in biochemical systems. More recently, several nitrones, including alpha-phenyl-tert-butylnitrone (PBN), have been shown to have potent biological activity in many experimental animal models. Many diseases of aging, including stroke, cancer development, Parkinson disease, and Alzheimer disease, are known to have enhanced levels of free radicals and oxidative stress [1].Nitrones are easily prepared by several methods well-documented in the primary literature. The most used includes condensation reactions between carbonyl compounds [2, 3] and oxidation of amines, imines, or hydroxylamines [4, 5]. But the most effective method remains isomerization of oxaziridines [6, 7] which are interesting heterocyclic compounds containing oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon atoms in a three-member ring. Since their discovery by Emmons in 1956 [8], oxaziridines have gained increasing attention [9]. In particular, the oxaziridine is of interest because of an inherently weak N-O bond due to the strained ring that makes the molecule unusually highly reactive. These heterocycles have been shown to be promising reagents with potent antitumour [10, 11], antimalarial [12], and antifungal activities [13], and as effective analogues for penicillin [14]. They are also widely used as reagents and intermediates in the preparation of biologically active molecules [9, 15, 16].In this paper, we report the synthesis of a series of nitrones by isomerization of the corresponding oxaziridines and their antimicrobial activity.


## 2. Experimental

Solvents were purified by standard methods. Melting points (mp) were determined under microscope with a Leitz Wetzlair device and are uncorrected. LC-MS experiments were carried out with an Agilent 1100 LC system consisting of degasser, binary pump, auto sampler, and column heater. The column outlet was coupled to an Agilent MSD ion Trap XCT mass spectrometer equipped with an ESI ion source. High resolutions (HR) were obtained on a GC-HRMS Micromass Autospec (IE). IR spectra were obtained in KBr disks on a UR-20 instrument. NMR spectra were recorded on an AC 300 Bruker spectrometer at 300 MHz for1H and 75 MHz for 13C. Chemical shifts (δ) are given in ppm relative to T.M.S (tetramethylsilane). All reactions were monitored by TLC using commercial silica gel plates and visualization was accomplished by UV light or stained with Dragendorff reagent.


### 2.1. Preparation of Imine2a [17]

To a cooled (0°C) solution of sulfuric acid H2SO4 (95%) was added dropwise 1.1 mL of CH3CN in 20 mL of hexane under magnetic stirring. Then, tertiary alcohol1 (commercial product) 15.7 g with 10.43 mmol in 15 mL of hexane was added to the solution. After returning to the room temperature, the resulting mixture was stirred at 68°C for 2.5 h. Then, the solution is cooled at the room temperature and poured on ice-cold water under magnetic stirring. The solution is alkalized with ammonia. The organic layer is extracted with dichloromethane, washed with a solution saturated in sodium chloride, dried over sodium sulfate, and filtered. The solvent is removed in vacuo.Yield 80%.1H NMR (CDCl3, 300 MHz): δ 1.21 (s, 6H, 2CH3), 2.40 (s, 3H, CH3), 2.70 (s, 2H, CH2), 7.14 (m, 1H), 7.29 (m, 1H), 7.35 (m, 1H), 7.49 (m, 1H). 13C NMR (CDCl3, 75 MHz): δ 23.16, 27.91, 38.91, 53.76, 125.46, 126.86, 127.84, 128.34, 130.93, 136.37, 161.93. IR (KBr): ν = 1574 cm−1 (Ar), 1627 cm−1 (C=N), 2966 cm−1 (CH3). GC-MS (EI):m/z 173 [M+1]+, 158 (100), 145 (20), 130 (34), 115 (60), 103 (4), 91 (20), 77 (8), 63 (10), 51 (8).


### 2.2.  Preparation of Imine2b

To a cooled (0°C) solution (10 mL) of sulfuric acid, H2SO4 (95%) was added dropwise and under magnetic stirring, 1 eq ofp-nitrobenzonitrile in 10 mL of cyclohexane. Then, 0.5 g of tertiary alcohol1 (commercial product) in 10 mL of cyclohexane was added to the solution.After returning to room temperature, the resulting mixture was stirred under reflux for 2.30 hours. Then, the solution is cooled at the room temperature and versed on ice-cold water (50 mL) under magnetic stirring. The solution is alkalized with ammonia. The organic layer was extracted with dichloromethane (100 mL), washed with a saturated aqueous NaCl solution, dried over sodium sulfate, and filtered. The solvent was removed in vacuo.mp 116°C; Yield 83%.1H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl3): δ 1.34 (s, 6H, 2CH3); 2.87 (s, 2H, CH2), 7.11 (d, 1H, Ar-H, J3 = 5 Hz), 7.3 (m, 2H, Ar-H), 7.50 (m, 1H, Ar-H), 7.78 (d, 2H, Ar-H, J3 = 5 Hz), 8.32 (d, 2H, Ar-H, J3 = 5 Hz). 13C NMR (75 MHz, CDCl3): δ 27.43, 38.73, 55.26, 123.50, 126.85, 127.42, 128.67, 129.94, 131.58, 131.63, 137.51, 144.93, 148.33, 163.25. IR (KBr): ν = 2962 cm−1 (CH3), 2868 cm−1 (CH2), 1518–1345 cm−1 (NO2). LC-MS:m/z 280 [M+1]+. MS (HR): found mass: 280.1213 mass calculated for C17H16N2O2: 280.1212.


### 2.3. Preparation of Imine2c

The cold imine2a (500 mg, 2.80 mmol) is added dropwise to 2.5 mL of concentrated sulfuric acid. A solution of 380 mg potassium nitrate in 1.4 mL of sulfuric acid is added dropwise by maintaining the temperature at less than 0°C. The reaction medium was stirred at room temperature for 2 h and then at 60°C for 4 h. After returning to room temperature, the reaction medium is poured on ice-cold water and alkalized with ammonia. The organic phase is extracted with the dichloromethane, washed with a solution saturated in sodium chloride, dried on sodium sulfate, and filtered. The solvent was removed in vacuo.mp: 68°C; yield 92%.1H NMR (CDCl3, 300 MHz): δ 1.20 (s, 6H, 2CH3), 2.45 (s, 3H, CH3), 2.79 (s, 2H, CH2), 7.32 (d, 1H, J3 = 8.1 Hz), 8.20 (dd, 1H, J3 = 8.1 J4 = 2.1 Hz), 8.31 (d, 1H, J4 = 2.1 Hz). 13C NMR (CDCl3, 75 MHz): δ 22.86, 27.76, 38.91, 54.27, 120.58, 125.96, 128.84, 129.34, 143.86, 147.16, 160.87. IR (KBr): ν = 1335 cm−1 (NO2), 1517 cm−1 (Ar), 1626 cm−1 (C=N), 2974 cm−1 (CH3). GC-MS (EI):m/z 218 [M+1]+, 203 (67), 190 (32), 176 (18), 157 (52), 144 (8), 130 (22), 115 (57), 102 (9), 89 (15), 76 (11), 63 (9). MS (HR) found mass: 218.1073; mass calculated for C12H14N2O2: 218.1052.


### 2.4. Preparation of Oxaziridine3a

By portions, a slight excess ofm-chloroperbenzoic acid (314 mg, 1.82 mmol) was added to a solution of imine2a (300 mg, 1.73 mmol) in methanol (9 mL) under magnetic stirring and at 0°C. The reaction was followed by TLC (dichloromethane : methanol 98 : 2). The solvent was evaporated, and the residue obtained was taken up in dichloromethane. The solution was washed with a solution of sodium bicarbonate and then with a solution saturated with sodium chloride. The organic phase was dried on sodium sulfate, filtered, and concentrated.Yield 80%.1H NMR (CDCl3, 300 MHz): δ 0.91 (s, 3H, CH3), 1.47 (s, 3H, CH3), 1.89 (s, CH3), 2.35 (d, 1H, CH2), 2.77 (d, 1H, CH2), 7.08 (m, 1H), 7.28 (m, 1H), 8.20 (m, 1H), 7.62 (m, 1H). 13C NMR (CDCl3, 75 MHz): δ 21.98, 23.08, 29.24, 37.72, 56.98, 78.10, 126.95, 128.38, 129.07, 129.54, 131.52, 135.48. IR (KBr): ν = 760 cm−1 (C-N), 1525 cm−1 (Ar), 2960 cm−1 (CH3). MS:m/z 189 [M+1]+, 174 (40), 157 (100), 142 (30), 130 (54), 115 (44), 103 (14), 91 (24), 77 (20), 56 (14). MS (HR): found mass 189.1134; mass calculated for C12H15NO: 189.1150.


### 2.5. Preparation of Oxaziridine3b

To a solution of imine,2b in methanol (9 mL) was added in small portions, with a slight excess ofm-chloroperbenzoic acid (1 equiv of active oxygen) under magnetic stirring and at room temperature. The reaction was followed by TLC (CH2Cl2/MeOH: 98 : 2). The solvent was evaporated and the residue obtained was taken up in dichloromethane (50 mL). The solution was washed with a solution of sodium bicarbonate and then with a saturated aqueous NaCl solution. The organic phase was dried over sodium sulfate, filtered, and concentrated.mp: 90°C; Yield 91%.1H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl3): δ 1.16 (s, 3H, CH3), 1.57 (s, 3H, CH3), 2.60 (d, 1H, CH2, J2 = 15 Hz), 2.93 (d, 1H, CH2, J2 = 15 Hz), 6.93 (d, 1H, Ar-H, J3 = 10 Hz), 7.20 (m, 2H, Ar-H), 7.46 (m, 1H, Ar-H), 7.76 (d, 2H, Ar-H, J3 = 10 Hz), 8.36 (d, 2H, Ar-H, J3 = 10 Hz). 13C NMR (75 MHz, CDCl3): δ 22.17, 28.64, 37.15, 57.09, 81.07, 123.45, 126.43, 128.40, 129.03 (2C), 129.97, 130.26, 135.41, 144.16, 147.99. IR (KBr): ν = 2964 cm−1 (CH3), 2869 cm−1 (CH2), 1603 cm−1 (Ar), 1520–1348 cm−1 (NO2). LC-MS:m/z 296 [M+1]+, MS (HR): found mass: 296.1166 mass calculated for C17H16N2O3: 296.1161.


### 2.6. Preparation of Oxaziridine3c

Small portions, a slight excess ofm-chloroperbenzoic acid (415 mg, 2.40 mmol), were added to a solution of imine2c (500 mg, 2.29 mmol) in methanol under magnetic stirring at 0°C. The reaction was followed by TLC (dichloromethane : methanol 95 : 5).The solvent was evaporated, and the residue obtained was taken up in dichloromethane. The solution was washed with a solution of sodium bicarbonate and then with a saturated solution of sodium chloride. The organic phase was dried on sodium sulfate, filtered, and concentrated. The resulting yellow solid was purified by crystallization from ether: hexane (1 : 1) affording colorless crystals of oxaziridine3c.mp: 72°C; yield 84%. 1H NMR (CDCl3, 300 MHz): δ 0.91 (s, 3H, CH3), 1.52 (s, 3H, CH3), 2.00 (s, CH3), 2.50 (d, 1H, CH2, J2 = 15.7 Hz), 2.81 (d, 1H, CH2, J2 = 15.7 Hz), 7.28 (d, 1H, J3 = 8.4 Hz), 8.2 (dd, 1H, J3 = 8.4, J4 = 2.1 Hz), 8.50 (d, 1H, J4 = 2.1 Hz). 13C NMR (CDCl3, 75 MHz): δ 21.29, 22.61, 28.65, 37.31, 56.80, 76.99, 123.24, 124.18, 129.68, 133.20, 142.77, 146.83. IR (KBr): ν = 740 cm−1 (C-N), 1350 cm−1 (NO2), 1527 cm−1 (Ar), 2965 cm−1 (CH3). MS (EI):m/z 234 [M+1]+, 218 (234–16). Anal. calc. for C12H14O3N2: C, 61.53; H, 6.02; O, 20.49; N, 11.96. Found: C, 61.58; H, 5.85; O, 20.69; N, 11.77.


### 2.7. Preparation of Nitrone4a

Methanesulfonic acid (76 mg, 0.79 mmol) was added to a solution of oxaziridine3a (50 mg, 0.26 mmol) in dichloromethane (5 mL). The solution was stirred at room temperature, diluted with the dichloromethane, and washed with a solution of sodium bicarbonate. The organic phase was dried on sodium sulfate, filtered, and concentrated.Yield 85%.1H NMR (CDCl3, 300 MHz): δ 1.43 (s, 6H, 2CH3), 2.44 (s, 3H, CH3), 3.03 (s, 2H, CH2), 7.18 (m, 1H), 7.26 (m, 2H), 7.31 (m, 1H). 13C NMR (CDCl3, 75 MHz): δ 25.15, 30.09, 42.16, 53.84, 124.29, 127.68, 128.08, 128.99, 130.80, 134.29, 141.17. IR (KBr): ν = 1582 cm−1 (Ar), 1600 cm−1 (C=N), 2358 cm−1 (N+-O−). MS (EI):m/z 189 [M+1]+, 174 (48), 157 (100), 142 (36), 130 (70), 115 (70), 103 (18), 91 (22), 77 (20), 65 (16), 51 (12). Found mass: 189.1164; mass calculated for C12H15NO: 189.1150.


### 2.8. Preparation of Nitrone4b

Methanesulfonic acid (160 mg, 5 eq) was added to a solution of oxaziridine3b(100 mg) in dichloromethane (5 mL) and the mixture was stirred at room temperature. A control of the reaction mixture by TLC (dichloromethane) indicated the disappearance of the oxaziridine. The solution was diluted with dichloromethane (25 mL) and washed with a solution of sodium bicarbonate. The organic phase was dried over sodium sulfate, filtered, and concentrated.mp 156°C; Yield 75%;1H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl3): δ 1.56 (s, 6H, 2CH3), 3.23 (s, 2H, CH2), 6.77 (d, 1H, Ar-H, 3J = 10 Hz), 7.30 (m, 2H, Ar-H), 7.35 (m, 1H, Ar-H), 7.76 (d, 2H, Ar-H, 3J = 10 Hz), 8.36 (d, 2H, Ar-H, 3J = 10 Hz). 13C NMR (75 MHz, CDCl3): δ 24.57, 41.64, 67.77, 123.45, 125.71, 127.26, 128.02, 129.23, 130.22, 130.98, 131.56, 138.76, 139.64, 147.73. IR (KBr) ν, cm−1: 3026 (CH3), 2933 (CH2), 1513–1341 (NO2). LC-MS:m/z 296 [M+1]+. MS (HR): found mass: 296.1166 mass calculated for C17H16N2O3: 296.1161.


### 2.9. Preparation of Nitrone4c

Methanesulfonic acid (123 mg, 1.27 mmol) was added to a solution of oxaziridine3c (100 mg, 0.42 mmol) in dichloromethane (5 mL). The solution was stirred at room temperature, diluted with the dichloromethane, and washed with a solution of sodium bicarbonate. The organic phase was dried on sodium sulfate, filtered, and concentrated.mp 106–108°C, yield 84%.1H NMR (CDCl3, 300 MHz): δ 1.56 (s, 6H, 2CH3), 2.69 (s, 3H, CH3), 3.78 (s, 2H, CH2), 7.32 (d, 1H, J3 = 8.4 Hz), 8.25 (dd, 1H, J3 = 8.4 Hz, J4 = 2.1 Hz), 8.55 (d, 1H, J4 = 2.1 Hz). 13C NMR (CDCl3, 75 MHz): δ 25.77, 29.73, 41.28, 88.97, 124.07, 125.87, 133.47, 139.63, 142.20, 146.89, 199.94. IR (KBr): ν = 1346 cm−1 (NO2), 1515 cm−1 (Ar), 1610 cm−1 (C=N), 2360 cm−1 (N+-O−). MS (EI):m/z 234 [M+1]+. Anal. calc. for C12H14O3N2: C, 61.53; H, 6.02; O, 20.49; N, 11.96. Found: C, 61.51; H, 6.16; O, 20.49; N, 11.8.


## 2.1. Preparation of Imine2a [17]

To a cooled (0°C) solution of sulfuric acid H2SO4 (95%) was added dropwise 1.1 mL of CH3CN in 20 mL of hexane under magnetic stirring. Then, tertiary alcohol1 (commercial product) 15.7 g with 10.43 mmol in 15 mL of hexane was added to the solution. After returning to the room temperature, the resulting mixture was stirred at 68°C for 2.5 h. Then, the solution is cooled at the room temperature and poured on ice-cold water under magnetic stirring. The solution is alkalized with ammonia. The organic layer is extracted with dichloromethane, washed with a solution saturated in sodium chloride, dried over sodium sulfate, and filtered. The solvent is removed in vacuo.Yield 80%.1H NMR (CDCl3, 300 MHz): δ 1.21 (s, 6H, 2CH3), 2.40 (s, 3H, CH3), 2.70 (s, 2H, CH2), 7.14 (m, 1H), 7.29 (m, 1H), 7.35 (m, 1H), 7.49 (m, 1H). 13C NMR (CDCl3, 75 MHz): δ 23.16, 27.91, 38.91, 53.76, 125.46, 126.86, 127.84, 128.34, 130.93, 136.37, 161.93. IR (KBr): ν = 1574 cm−1 (Ar), 1627 cm−1 (C=N), 2966 cm−1 (CH3). GC-MS (EI):m/z 173 [M+1]+, 158 (100), 145 (20), 130 (34), 115 (60), 103 (4), 91 (20), 77 (8), 63 (10), 51 (8).


## 2.2.  Preparation of Imine2b

To a cooled (0°C) solution (10 mL) of sulfuric acid, H2SO4 (95%) was added dropwise and under magnetic stirring, 1 eq ofp-nitrobenzonitrile in 10 mL of cyclohexane. Then, 0.5 g of tertiary alcohol1 (commercial product) in 10 mL of cyclohexane was added to the solution.After returning to room temperature, the resulting mixture was stirred under reflux for 2.30 hours. Then, the solution is cooled at the room temperature and versed on ice-cold water (50 mL) under magnetic stirring. The solution is alkalized with ammonia. The organic layer was extracted with dichloromethane (100 mL), washed with a saturated aqueous NaCl solution, dried over sodium sulfate, and filtered. The solvent was removed in vacuo.mp 116°C; Yield 83%.1H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl3): δ 1.34 (s, 6H, 2CH3); 2.87 (s, 2H, CH2), 7.11 (d, 1H, Ar-H, J3 = 5 Hz), 7.3 (m, 2H, Ar-H), 7.50 (m, 1H, Ar-H), 7.78 (d, 2H, Ar-H, J3 = 5 Hz), 8.32 (d, 2H, Ar-H, J3 = 5 Hz). 13C NMR (75 MHz, CDCl3): δ 27.43, 38.73, 55.26, 123.50, 126.85, 127.42, 128.67, 129.94, 131.58, 131.63, 137.51, 144.93, 148.33, 163.25. IR (KBr): ν = 2962 cm−1 (CH3), 2868 cm−1 (CH2), 1518–1345 cm−1 (NO2). LC-MS:m/z 280 [M+1]+. MS (HR): found mass: 280.1213 mass calculated for C17H16N2O2: 280.1212.


## 2.3. Preparation of Imine2c

The cold imine2a (500 mg, 2.80 mmol) is added dropwise to 2.5 mL of concentrated sulfuric acid. A solution of 380 mg potassium nitrate in 1.4 mL of sulfuric acid is added dropwise by maintaining the temperature at less than 0°C. The reaction medium was stirred at room temperature for 2 h and then at 60°C for 4 h. After returning to room temperature, the reaction medium is poured on ice-cold water and alkalized with ammonia. The organic phase is extracted with the dichloromethane, washed with a solution saturated in sodium chloride, dried on sodium sulfate, and filtered. The solvent was removed in vacuo.mp: 68°C; yield 92%.1H NMR (CDCl3, 300 MHz): δ 1.20 (s, 6H, 2CH3), 2.45 (s, 3H, CH3), 2.79 (s, 2H, CH2), 7.32 (d, 1H, J3 = 8.1 Hz), 8.20 (dd, 1H, J3 = 8.1 J4 = 2.1 Hz), 8.31 (d, 1H, J4 = 2.1 Hz). 13C NMR (CDCl3, 75 MHz): δ 22.86, 27.76, 38.91, 54.27, 120.58, 125.96, 128.84, 129.34, 143.86, 147.16, 160.87. IR (KBr): ν = 1335 cm−1 (NO2), 1517 cm−1 (Ar), 1626 cm−1 (C=N), 2974 cm−1 (CH3). GC-MS (EI):m/z 218 [M+1]+, 203 (67), 190 (32), 176 (18), 157 (52), 144 (8), 130 (22), 115 (57), 102 (9), 89 (15), 76 (11), 63 (9). MS (HR) found mass: 218.1073; mass calculated for C12H14N2O2: 218.1052.


## 2.4. Preparation of Oxaziridine3a

By portions, a slight excess ofm-chloroperbenzoic acid (314 mg, 1.82 mmol) was added to a solution of imine2a (300 mg, 1.73 mmol) in methanol (9 mL) under magnetic stirring and at 0°C. The reaction was followed by TLC (dichloromethane : methanol 98 : 2). The solvent was evaporated, and the residue obtained was taken up in dichloromethane. The solution was washed with a solution of sodium bicarbonate and then with a solution saturated with sodium chloride. The organic phase was dried on sodium sulfate, filtered, and concentrated.Yield 80%.1H NMR (CDCl3, 300 MHz): δ 0.91 (s, 3H, CH3), 1.47 (s, 3H, CH3), 1.89 (s, CH3), 2.35 (d, 1H, CH2), 2.77 (d, 1H, CH2), 7.08 (m, 1H), 7.28 (m, 1H), 8.20 (m, 1H), 7.62 (m, 1H). 13C NMR (CDCl3, 75 MHz): δ 21.98, 23.08, 29.24, 37.72, 56.98, 78.10, 126.95, 128.38, 129.07, 129.54, 131.52, 135.48. IR (KBr): ν = 760 cm−1 (C-N), 1525 cm−1 (Ar), 2960 cm−1 (CH3). MS:m/z 189 [M+1]+, 174 (40), 157 (100), 142 (30), 130 (54), 115 (44), 103 (14), 91 (24), 77 (20), 56 (14). MS (HR): found mass 189.1134; mass calculated for C12H15NO: 189.1150.


## 2.5. Preparation of Oxaziridine3b

To a solution of imine,2b in methanol (9 mL) was added in small portions, with a slight excess ofm-chloroperbenzoic acid (1 equiv of active oxygen) under magnetic stirring and at room temperature. The reaction was followed by TLC (CH2Cl2/MeOH: 98 : 2). The solvent was evaporated and the residue obtained was taken up in dichloromethane (50 mL). The solution was washed with a solution of sodium bicarbonate and then with a saturated aqueous NaCl solution. The organic phase was dried over sodium sulfate, filtered, and concentrated.mp: 90°C; Yield 91%.1H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl3): δ 1.16 (s, 3H, CH3), 1.57 (s, 3H, CH3), 2.60 (d, 1H, CH2, J2 = 15 Hz), 2.93 (d, 1H, CH2, J2 = 15 Hz), 6.93 (d, 1H, Ar-H, J3 = 10 Hz), 7.20 (m, 2H, Ar-H), 7.46 (m, 1H, Ar-H), 7.76 (d, 2H, Ar-H, J3 = 10 Hz), 8.36 (d, 2H, Ar-H, J3 = 10 Hz). 13C NMR (75 MHz, CDCl3): δ 22.17, 28.64, 37.15, 57.09, 81.07, 123.45, 126.43, 128.40, 129.03 (2C), 129.97, 130.26, 135.41, 144.16, 147.99. IR (KBr): ν = 2964 cm−1 (CH3), 2869 cm−1 (CH2), 1603 cm−1 (Ar), 1520–1348 cm−1 (NO2). LC-MS:m/z 296 [M+1]+, MS (HR): found mass: 296.1166 mass calculated for C17H16N2O3: 296.1161.


## 2.6. Preparation of Oxaziridine3c

Small portions, a slight excess ofm-chloroperbenzoic acid (415 mg, 2.40 mmol), were added to a solution of imine2c (500 mg, 2.29 mmol) in methanol under magnetic stirring at 0°C. The reaction was followed by TLC (dichloromethane : methanol 95 : 5).The solvent was evaporated, and the residue obtained was taken up in dichloromethane. The solution was washed with a solution of sodium bicarbonate and then with a saturated solution of sodium chloride. The organic phase was dried on sodium sulfate, filtered, and concentrated. The resulting yellow solid was purified by crystallization from ether: hexane (1 : 1) affording colorless crystals of oxaziridine3c.mp: 72°C; yield 84%. 1H NMR (CDCl3, 300 MHz): δ 0.91 (s, 3H, CH3), 1.52 (s, 3H, CH3), 2.00 (s, CH3), 2.50 (d, 1H, CH2, J2 = 15.7 Hz), 2.81 (d, 1H, CH2, J2 = 15.7 Hz), 7.28 (d, 1H, J3 = 8.4 Hz), 8.2 (dd, 1H, J3 = 8.4, J4 = 2.1 Hz), 8.50 (d, 1H, J4 = 2.1 Hz). 13C NMR (CDCl3, 75 MHz): δ 21.29, 22.61, 28.65, 37.31, 56.80, 76.99, 123.24, 124.18, 129.68, 133.20, 142.77, 146.83. IR (KBr): ν = 740 cm−1 (C-N), 1350 cm−1 (NO2), 1527 cm−1 (Ar), 2965 cm−1 (CH3). MS (EI):m/z 234 [M+1]+, 218 (234–16). Anal. calc. for C12H14O3N2: C, 61.53; H, 6.02; O, 20.49; N, 11.96. Found: C, 61.58; H, 5.85; O, 20.69; N, 11.77.


## 2.7. Preparation of Nitrone4a

Methanesulfonic acid (76 mg, 0.79 mmol) was added to a solution of oxaziridine3a (50 mg, 0.26 mmol) in dichloromethane (5 mL). The solution was stirred at room temperature, diluted with the dichloromethane, and washed with a solution of sodium bicarbonate. The organic phase was dried on sodium sulfate, filtered, and concentrated.Yield 85%.1H NMR (CDCl3, 300 MHz): δ 1.43 (s, 6H, 2CH3), 2.44 (s, 3H, CH3), 3.03 (s, 2H, CH2), 7.18 (m, 1H), 7.26 (m, 2H), 7.31 (m, 1H). 13C NMR (CDCl3, 75 MHz): δ 25.15, 30.09, 42.16, 53.84, 124.29, 127.68, 128.08, 128.99, 130.80, 134.29, 141.17. IR (KBr): ν = 1582 cm−1 (Ar), 1600 cm−1 (C=N), 2358 cm−1 (N+-O−). MS (EI):m/z 189 [M+1]+, 174 (48), 157 (100), 142 (36), 130 (70), 115 (70), 103 (18), 91 (22), 77 (20), 65 (16), 51 (12). Found mass: 189.1164; mass calculated for C12H15NO: 189.1150.


## 2.8. Preparation of Nitrone4b

Methanesulfonic acid (160 mg, 5 eq) was added to a solution of oxaziridine3b(100 mg) in dichloromethane (5 mL) and the mixture was stirred at room temperature. A control of the reaction mixture by TLC (dichloromethane) indicated the disappearance of the oxaziridine. The solution was diluted with dichloromethane (25 mL) and washed with a solution of sodium bicarbonate. The organic phase was dried over sodium sulfate, filtered, and concentrated.mp 156°C; Yield 75%;1H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl3): δ 1.56 (s, 6H, 2CH3), 3.23 (s, 2H, CH2), 6.77 (d, 1H, Ar-H, 3J = 10 Hz), 7.30 (m, 2H, Ar-H), 7.35 (m, 1H, Ar-H), 7.76 (d, 2H, Ar-H, 3J = 10 Hz), 8.36 (d, 2H, Ar-H, 3J = 10 Hz). 13C NMR (75 MHz, CDCl3): δ 24.57, 41.64, 67.77, 123.45, 125.71, 127.26, 128.02, 129.23, 130.22, 130.98, 131.56, 138.76, 139.64, 147.73. IR (KBr) ν, cm−1: 3026 (CH3), 2933 (CH2), 1513–1341 (NO2). LC-MS:m/z 296 [M+1]+. MS (HR): found mass: 296.1166 mass calculated for C17H16N2O3: 296.1161.


## 2.9. Preparation of Nitrone4c

Methanesulfonic acid (123 mg, 1.27 mmol) was added to a solution of oxaziridine3c (100 mg, 0.42 mmol) in dichloromethane (5 mL). The solution was stirred at room temperature, diluted with the dichloromethane, and washed with a solution of sodium bicarbonate. The organic phase was dried on sodium sulfate, filtered, and concentrated.mp 106–108°C, yield 84%.1H NMR (CDCl3, 300 MHz): δ 1.56 (s, 6H, 2CH3), 2.69 (s, 3H, CH3), 3.78 (s, 2H, CH2), 7.32 (d, 1H, J3 = 8.4 Hz), 8.25 (dd, 1H, J3 = 8.4 Hz, J4 = 2.1 Hz), 8.55 (d, 1H, J4 = 2.1 Hz). 13C NMR (CDCl3, 75 MHz): δ 25.77, 29.73, 41.28, 88.97, 124.07, 125.87, 133.47, 139.63, 142.20, 146.89, 199.94. IR (KBr): ν = 1346 cm−1 (NO2), 1515 cm−1 (Ar), 1610 cm−1 (C=N), 2360 cm−1 (N+-O−). MS (EI):m/z 234 [M+1]+. Anal. calc. for C12H14O3N2: C, 61.53; H, 6.02; O, 20.49; N, 11.96. Found: C, 61.51; H, 6.16; O, 20.49; N, 11.8.


## 3. Results and Discussion

### 3.1. Chemistry

In this study, we have developed a simple and efficient synthetic method of dihydroisoquinoline nitrone from the corresponding oxaziridines. The oxaziridines presented in this paper were synthesized starting from the commercial tertiary alcohol1 (Scheme 1).Scheme 1
Reagents and conditions of oxaziridines3a–c synthesis.The imines2a or2b from step (x) were obtained by acid catalyzed reaction of 2-methyl-1-phenylpropan-2-ol1 by Ritter-type procedure with acetonitrile or benzonitrile. The nitration of imine2a under mild conditions leads to imine2c. The peracid oxidation of imines2a–c leads quickly to oxaziridines3a–c in good yields (Scheme 1).The oxaziridines3a and3c have been previously reported to be an excellent agent for the transfer of oxygen on organosulfides, if the oxygen transfer is promoted by an acid [18].Indeed, in the absence of sulfide, oxaziridine, which can be O-protonated, isomerizes into nitrone (Scheme2).Scheme 2
Oxaziridine3c under the action of acid.The isomerization reaction of oxaziridines3a–c(Scheme 3) with 5 equivalents of methanesulfonic acid (CH3SO3H) leads to nitrone4a–c with goods yields, respectively (Table 1).Table 1
Yields of nitrones4a–c.
Nitrone
X
R
Yield
4a
H
Me
85%
4b
H
4-C6H4-NO2
75%
4c
NO2
Me
84%Scheme 3
Synthesis of nitrones.


### 3.2. Biology

#### 3.2.1. Antimicrobial Activities

All the synthesized compounds were screened for their antibacterial activities. For this study, microorganisms employed wereB. thuringiensis,E. coli,B. subtilis,K. pneumoniae, andE. faecalis. Antimicrobial studies were assessed by minimum inhibition concentration (MIC) method by the serial dilution technique.The results of antimicrobial testing are reported in (Table2).Table 2
Antimicrobial activity of synthesized compounds4a–c(a,b,c) compared to an antibiotic like penicillin (P).
Compounds
Inhibition  zone  diameter  (mm)
B.  thuringiensis
E.  coli
B.  subtilis
K.  pneumoniae
E.  faecalis
4a
15 ± 0.35
12 ± 0.14
—
—
—
4b
—
—
12 ± 1.06
—
—
4c
—
12 ± 0.53
—
—
—
P
R
14 ± 0.70
14 ± 0.25
10 ± 0.35
14 ± 0.00
B. thuringiensis: Bacillus thuringiensis; E. coli: Escherichia coli; B.  subtilis: Bacillus subtilis; K. pneumoniae: Klebsiella pneumoniae; E. faecalis: Enterococcus faecalis; R: resistant.
aSample concentration: 8 mg/Ml. Sample volume 1000 µL/well.
bResults are calculated after subtraction of MeOH activity.
cNot active (inhibition zone < 2 mm); weak activity (2–8 mm); moderate activity (9–15 mm); strong activity (>15 mm).From the antimicrobial activity study, it was found that compounds4a exhibited an excellent activity against bacteriaB. thuringiensis andE. coli.


#### 3.2.2. Minimal Inhibitory Concentrations (MIC)

Table3 revealed that all compounds showed antimicrobial activities. The maximum MIC was recorded againstE. coli with both compounds4a and4b and againstB. subtilis with the latest product4c. The results presented here are promising, since the activity against Gram-positive bacteria is high, even if it has activity for Gram-negative bacteria. As it is well known, the structure of the form of Gram-negative bacteria has additional layers that make extracellular defense wall. The compounds4a and4b are active againstE. coli at a concentration of 40 mg·mL−1 which shows the stiffness of the wall of the compound where the strain weakens the bacterial cell wall with a high concentration. Generally, the change in concentration depends on the resistance of the bacterial strain.Table 3
Antimicrobial activity of the compounds using minimal inhibition concentration (MIC).
Compound
Minimal  inhibition concentration (MIC) mg·mL−1
B.  thuringiensis
E.  coli
B.  subtilis
K.  pneumoniae
E.  faecalis
4a
20
40
—
—
—
4b
—
—
40
—
—
4c
—
40
—
—
—


### 3.3. Biological Testing

#### 3.3.1. Antimicrobial Activity

All the newly synthesized compounds were evaluated for their antimicrobial activities against various microorganisms representing Gram-positive bacteria (Bacillus thuringiensis, B. subtilis,andE. faecalis) and Gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli, K. pneumoniae), using the minimum inhibition concentration (MIC) method by the serial dilution technique.The culture medium used is Mueller Hinton, which is the most used medium for susceptibility testing antibacterial agents, with a concentration 38 g/L.In a test tube containing 2 mL of Muller Hinton liquid, colony of each reference strain was seeded. This preculture is subjected during 18H at 37°C. 20μL of preculture was added to 2 mL of Muller Hinton liquid; the whole is incubated 3–5 h at 37°C to reach exponential phase.On Muller Hinton solid medium, 30μL of the cell suspension is spread on the box kneaded and after a period of time the wells were created on the box.50μL of each product is placed in each well. The box is left 2 to 3 h at 4°C for the proper dissemination of the extract. After incubation, the dishes are put in the oven according to the temperature corresponding to each strain.The results of the antimicrobial studies are summarized in Table2.


#### 3.3.2.  Determination of the Minimal Inhibitory Concentration (MIC)

The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) of the synthesized nitrones (4a–c) were determined for each antimicrobial activity against selected microorganisms by using agar diffusion method.The results of the antimicrobial studies using MIC are summarized in Table3.


## 3.1. Chemistry

In this study, we have developed a simple and efficient synthetic method of dihydroisoquinoline nitrone from the corresponding oxaziridines. The oxaziridines presented in this paper were synthesized starting from the commercial tertiary alcohol1 (Scheme 1).Scheme 1
Reagents and conditions of oxaziridines3a–c synthesis.The imines2a or2b from step (x) were obtained by acid catalyzed reaction of 2-methyl-1-phenylpropan-2-ol1 by Ritter-type procedure with acetonitrile or benzonitrile. The nitration of imine2a under mild conditions leads to imine2c. The peracid oxidation of imines2a–c leads quickly to oxaziridines3a–c in good yields (Scheme 1).The oxaziridines3a and3c have been previously reported to be an excellent agent for the transfer of oxygen on organosulfides, if the oxygen transfer is promoted by an acid [18].Indeed, in the absence of sulfide, oxaziridine, which can be O-protonated, isomerizes into nitrone (Scheme2).Scheme 2
Oxaziridine3c under the action of acid.The isomerization reaction of oxaziridines3a–c(Scheme 3) with 5 equivalents of methanesulfonic acid (CH3SO3H) leads to nitrone4a–c with goods yields, respectively (Table 1).Table 1
Yields of nitrones4a–c.
Nitrone
X
R
Yield
4a
H
Me
85%
4b
H
4-C6H4-NO2
75%
4c
NO2
Me
84%Scheme 3
Synthesis of nitrones.


## 3.2. Biology

### 3.2.1. Antimicrobial Activities

All the synthesized compounds were screened for their antibacterial activities. For this study, microorganisms employed wereB. thuringiensis,E. coli,B. subtilis,K. pneumoniae, andE. faecalis. Antimicrobial studies were assessed by minimum inhibition concentration (MIC) method by the serial dilution technique.The results of antimicrobial testing are reported in (Table2).Table 2
Antimicrobial activity of synthesized compounds4a–c(a,b,c) compared to an antibiotic like penicillin (P).
Compounds
Inhibition  zone  diameter  (mm)
B.  thuringiensis
E.  coli
B.  subtilis
K.  pneumoniae
E.  faecalis
4a
15 ± 0.35
12 ± 0.14
—
—
—
4b
—
—
12 ± 1.06
—
—
4c
—
12 ± 0.53
—
—
—
P
R
14 ± 0.70
14 ± 0.25
10 ± 0.35
14 ± 0.00
B. thuringiensis: Bacillus thuringiensis; E. coli: Escherichia coli; B.  subtilis: Bacillus subtilis; K. pneumoniae: Klebsiella pneumoniae; E. faecalis: Enterococcus faecalis; R: resistant.
aSample concentration: 8 mg/Ml. Sample volume 1000 µL/well.
bResults are calculated after subtraction of MeOH activity.
cNot active (inhibition zone < 2 mm); weak activity (2–8 mm); moderate activity (9–15 mm); strong activity (>15 mm).From the antimicrobial activity study, it was found that compounds4a exhibited an excellent activity against bacteriaB. thuringiensis andE. coli.


### 3.2.2. Minimal Inhibitory Concentrations (MIC)

Table3 revealed that all compounds showed antimicrobial activities. The maximum MIC was recorded againstE. coli with both compounds4a and4b and againstB. subtilis with the latest product4c. The results presented here are promising, since the activity against Gram-positive bacteria is high, even if it has activity for Gram-negative bacteria. As it is well known, the structure of the form of Gram-negative bacteria has additional layers that make extracellular defense wall. The compounds4a and4b are active againstE. coli at a concentration of 40 mg·mL−1 which shows the stiffness of the wall of the compound where the strain weakens the bacterial cell wall with a high concentration. Generally, the change in concentration depends on the resistance of the bacterial strain.Table 3
Antimicrobial activity of the compounds using minimal inhibition concentration (MIC).
Compound
Minimal  inhibition concentration (MIC) mg·mL−1
B.  thuringiensis
E.  coli
B.  subtilis
K.  pneumoniae
E.  faecalis
4a
20
40
—
—
—
4b
—
—
40
—
—
4c
—
40
—
—
—


## 3.2.1. Antimicrobial Activities

All the synthesized compounds were screened for their antibacterial activities. For this study, microorganisms employed wereB. thuringiensis,E. coli,B. subtilis,K. pneumoniae, andE. faecalis. Antimicrobial studies were assessed by minimum inhibition concentration (MIC) method by the serial dilution technique.The results of antimicrobial testing are reported in (Table2).Table 2
Antimicrobial activity of synthesized compounds4a–c(a,b,c) compared to an antibiotic like penicillin (P).
Compounds
Inhibition  zone  diameter  (mm)
B.  thuringiensis
E.  coli
B.  subtilis
K.  pneumoniae
E.  faecalis
4a
15 ± 0.35
12 ± 0.14
—
—
—
4b
—
—
12 ± 1.06
—
—
4c
—
12 ± 0.53
—
—
—
P
R
14 ± 0.70
14 ± 0.25
10 ± 0.35
14 ± 0.00
B. thuringiensis: Bacillus thuringiensis; E. coli: Escherichia coli; B.  subtilis: Bacillus subtilis; K. pneumoniae: Klebsiella pneumoniae; E. faecalis: Enterococcus faecalis; R: resistant.
aSample concentration: 8 mg/Ml. Sample volume 1000 µL/well.
bResults are calculated after subtraction of MeOH activity.
cNot active (inhibition zone < 2 mm); weak activity (2–8 mm); moderate activity (9–15 mm); strong activity (>15 mm).From the antimicrobial activity study, it was found that compounds4a exhibited an excellent activity against bacteriaB. thuringiensis andE. coli.


## 3.2.2. Minimal Inhibitory Concentrations (MIC)

Table3 revealed that all compounds showed antimicrobial activities. The maximum MIC was recorded againstE. coli with both compounds4a and4b and againstB. subtilis with the latest product4c. The results presented here are promising, since the activity against Gram-positive bacteria is high, even if it has activity for Gram-negative bacteria. As it is well known, the structure of the form of Gram-negative bacteria has additional layers that make extracellular defense wall. The compounds4a and4b are active againstE. coli at a concentration of 40 mg·mL−1 which shows the stiffness of the wall of the compound where the strain weakens the bacterial cell wall with a high concentration. Generally, the change in concentration depends on the resistance of the bacterial strain.Table 3
Antimicrobial activity of the compounds using minimal inhibition concentration (MIC).
Compound
Minimal  inhibition concentration (MIC) mg·mL−1
B.  thuringiensis
E.  coli
B.  subtilis
K.  pneumoniae
E.  faecalis
4a
20
40
—
—
—
4b
—
—
40
—
—
4c
—
40
—
—
—


## 3.3. Biological Testing

### 3.3.1. Antimicrobial Activity

All the newly synthesized compounds were evaluated for their antimicrobial activities against various microorganisms representing Gram-positive bacteria (Bacillus thuringiensis, B. subtilis,andE. faecalis) and Gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli, K. pneumoniae), using the minimum inhibition concentration (MIC) method by the serial dilution technique.The culture medium used is Mueller Hinton, which is the most used medium for susceptibility testing antibacterial agents, with a concentration 38 g/L.In a test tube containing 2 mL of Muller Hinton liquid, colony of each reference strain was seeded. This preculture is subjected during 18H at 37°C. 20μL of preculture was added to 2 mL of Muller Hinton liquid; the whole is incubated 3–5 h at 37°C to reach exponential phase.On Muller Hinton solid medium, 30μL of the cell suspension is spread on the box kneaded and after a period of time the wells were created on the box.50μL of each product is placed in each well. The box is left 2 to 3 h at 4°C for the proper dissemination of the extract. After incubation, the dishes are put in the oven according to the temperature corresponding to each strain.The results of the antimicrobial studies are summarized in Table2.


### 3.3.2.  Determination of the Minimal Inhibitory Concentration (MIC)

The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) of the synthesized nitrones (4a–c) were determined for each antimicrobial activity against selected microorganisms by using agar diffusion method.The results of the antimicrobial studies using MIC are summarized in Table3.


## 3.3.1. Antimicrobial Activity

All the newly synthesized compounds were evaluated for their antimicrobial activities against various microorganisms representing Gram-positive bacteria (Bacillus thuringiensis, B. subtilis,andE. faecalis) and Gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli, K. pneumoniae), using the minimum inhibition concentration (MIC) method by the serial dilution technique.The culture medium used is Mueller Hinton, which is the most used medium for susceptibility testing antibacterial agents, with a concentration 38 g/L.In a test tube containing 2 mL of Muller Hinton liquid, colony of each reference strain was seeded. This preculture is subjected during 18H at 37°C. 20μL of preculture was added to 2 mL of Muller Hinton liquid; the whole is incubated 3–5 h at 37°C to reach exponential phase.On Muller Hinton solid medium, 30μL of the cell suspension is spread on the box kneaded and after a period of time the wells were created on the box.50μL of each product is placed in each well. The box is left 2 to 3 h at 4°C for the proper dissemination of the extract. After incubation, the dishes are put in the oven according to the temperature corresponding to each strain.The results of the antimicrobial studies are summarized in Table2.


## 3.3.2.  Determination of the Minimal Inhibitory Concentration (MIC)

The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) of the synthesized nitrones (4a–c) were determined for each antimicrobial activity against selected microorganisms by using agar diffusion method.The results of the antimicrobial studies using MIC are summarized in Table3.


## 4. Conclusion

A novel series of nitrones was synthesized by a simple method and with good yields. All the compounds were screened for their antibacterial activity by agar diffusion method and serial dilution method. Compound4a has showed excellent antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.



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*Source: 803867-2015-06-08.xml*