Asymmetric benzazole derivatives as dual antibiofilm and anti-wall teichoic acid agents against Staphylococcus aureus

Aims: Antibiotic-resistant bacteria, particularly methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), have renewed interest in antivirulence strategies. This study aimed to design, synthesize, and evaluate asymmetric di‑heterocyclic benzazole derivatives as antibiofilm agents targeting wall teichoic acid (WTA) biosynthesis. Materials and methods: Twenty‑one novel bis‑heterocyclic benzazole derivatives bearing an ethyl‑thio linker were synthesized and characterized. Antibacterial activity was determined by broth microdilution. Antibiofilm activity (inhibition and eradication) was assessed at sub‑minimal inhibitory concentrations (sub‑MICs) using crystal violet. Molecular docking and 200 ns molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were performed against key WTA enzymes (TarGH, TarS, TarM, TarL, and TarJ). Results: Compounds 18, 21, 23, and 24 showed potent antibacterial activity against methicillin‑susceptible S. aureus (MSSA) and MRSA, with MIC values as low as 15.62 µg/mL. All selected compounds significantly inhibited biofilm at sub‑MIC levels. Compound 24 was most effective, with an MBIC50 of 3.90 µg/mL against MSSA and eradicated pre‑formed biofilms at 7.81 µg/mL. Docking and MD simulations revealed stable interactions of compounds 23 and 24 with TarGH and TarS, suggesting a WTA‑targeting mechanism. Conclusions: Di‑heterocyclic benzazole derivatives, especially compound 24, are promising scaffolds for antibiofilm agents against S. aureus. Our findings support further mechanistic and preclinical evaluation as potential antivirulence therapeutics. © 2026 Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group.