Synthesis and evaluation of substituted 3-(pyridin-2-yl)benzenesulfonamide derivatives as potent herbicidal agents.

In an attempt to obtain novel candidate compound for weed control, a series of newly substituted 3-(pyridin-2-yl)benzenesulfonamide derivatives 2 were designed and synthesized using compound II7 as a lead compound by Intermediate Derivatization Methods and their herbicidal activities were evaluated. The herbicidal activity assay in greenhouse tests showed several compounds (2g, 2i, 2j, 2k, 2l, 2m, 2n and 2o) exhibited significant herbicidal activity for controlling velvet leaf (Abutilon theophrasti medic.) and youth-and-old age (Zinnia elegans jacq.) at 37.5ga.i./ha. In particular, 2h was found to be the most potential candidate herbicide and was proved higher activity than the lead compound II7. The result of the weed controlling spectrum test showed that 2h could effectively control dayflower (Commelina tuberosa), bur beggarticks (Bidens tripartita linn.), youth-and-old age, cassia tora (Cassiaobtusifolia L.), velvet leaf, purslane (Portulaca oleracea) and false daisy (Eclipta prostrata L.). In addition, the mixture of compound 2h and propanil could produce a synergistic effect and enhance herbicidal activity. The result of the herbicidal activity assay in field test demonstrated that 2h could effectively control dayflower and nightshade (Disambiguation) with long-lasting persistence. The present work indicates that 2h may be a novel compound candidate as a potential herbicide.