Discovery and Optimization of DNA Gyrase and Topoisomerase IV Inhibitors with Potent Activity Against Fluoroquinolone-Resistant Gram-Positive Bacteria

Herein, we describe the discovery and optimization of a novel series that inhibits bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV binding to, and stabilization of, DNA cleavage complexes. Optimization of this series led to the identification of compound , which has potent activity against Gram-positive bacteria, a favorable safety profile, and excellent pharmacokinetic properties. Compound was found to be efficacious against fluoroquinolone-sensitive infection in a mouse thigh model at lower doses than moxifloxacin. An X-ray crystal structure of the ternary complex formed by topoisomerase IV from , compound , and cleaved DNA indicates that this compound does not engage in a water-metal ion bridge interaction and forms no direct contacts with residues in the quinolone resistance determining region (QRDR). This suggests a structural basis for the reduced impact of QRDR mutations on antibacterial activity of compared to fluoroquinolones.