Abstract 2610 Modified Carbapenem Derivatives exhibit Potential Inhibition against Mycobacterium tuberculosis Peptidoglycan Synthesis

Background: The burden of Tuberculosis (TB), has regained its position as the leading cause of death from a single infectious agent, Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) after COVID-19. Peptidoglycan synthesis is an underexplored drug target in Mtb treatment. Carbapenems are effective against TB as they are poor substrates for the Mtb β-lactamase BlaC and inhibit L, D-transpeptidases (LDTs), key β-lactam resistance mechanisms in Mtb. We hypothesize that substituting the C5α position and modifying the R2-side chain enhances carbapenem activity against Mtb.