Antimicrobial Activity of Gemini Surfactants with Azapolymethylene Spacer

Abstract

A series of 21 azapolymethylene gemini surfactants were obtained. The synthesis of the title surfactants in one- or two-step reaction proceeds with good yields. The structure and the purity of the synthesized compounds were determined by 1H and 13C NMR, ESI-MS spectra, and elemental analysis. Moreover, 2D COSY, HMBC, and HSQC spectra were performed. The minimal inhibitory concentrations (MIC) of the synthesized compounds were determined against fungi: Candida albicans, Aspergillus niger, Penicillium chrysogenum and bacteria: Escherichia coli,Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and Bacillus subtilis. Also, the critical micelle concentrations (CMC) were determined. The relationship between antimicrobial and surface activity and surfactant structure has been determined.

Keywords

• gemini surfactants
• antimicrobial activity
• minimal inhibitory concentration
• critical micelle concentration