Multifunctional derivatives of metronidazole

The design and synthesis of a series of multifunctional metronidazole derivatives are described. The main series are multi-esters having two or more metronidazole groups linked together by aryl or allyl systems. A second system is two nitro-2-methylimidazole groups joined by a dimethylene link. The third is polymeric 2-(2-methyl-5-nitroimidazol-1-yl)ethyl acrylate. The triester, metronidazole trimesate, is exceptionally active as an antibacterial compound, which appears to be associated with a rigid, three-point attachment. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science S.A.