One-pot enantioselective synthesis of functionalized pyranocoumarins and 2-amino-4H-chromenes: discovery of a type of potent antibacterial agent.

Function-oriented design and synthesis of chiral small molecules with novel activity is a key goal in modern organic chemistry. As multiple antibiotic-resistant pathogens are emerging and causing serious diseases, the need for practical routes for the development of new types of antibacterial agents is very urgent. Herein, we present a highly efficient process for the synthesis of optically active pyranocoumarins and 2-amino-4H-chromenes through an organocatalytic Knoevenagel/Michael/cyclization sequence, and the preliminary biological studies of these new heterocyclic compounds revealed potent antibacterial activity. This study provides a novel strategy for further research and development of new types of antibacterial agents effective against human pathogens.