Conformational restriction of methionyl tRNA synthetase inhibitors leading to analogues with potent inhibition and excellent gram-positive antibacterial activity.

Conformationally restricted analogues of the central linker unit of bacterial methionyl tRNA synthetase (MRS) inhibitors have been prepared. The (1S,2R)-cyclopentylmethyl moiety was identified as the preferred cyclic linker, with significant diastereo- and enantioselectivity of activity. Combination of this linker with an optimal substituted aryl right-hand side has resulted in a compound with exceptionally good antibacterial activity against staphylococci and enterococci, including antibiotic resistant strains.