Comparative Activities and Toxicities IV: Dinitro- and Dichloronitro- Phenylamino Acids and Esters

Abstract

N-2,4-Dinitrophenyl- and N-4,5-dichloro-2-nitrophenyl-α-amino acids and esters have been synthesized in an attempt to remove the toxic effects of the nitro and dichloronitro benzene nucleus to the host without removing antimicrobial activity. The esters were more effective than the free amino acids in reducing acute toxicity to mice. Some antibacterial and antifungal activity was retained in these derivatives, particularly the N-4,5-dichloro-2-nitrophenyl α-amino acids.