Camphor Derivatives for the Control of Phytopathogenic Bacteria: Synthesis and Evaluation in Cherry

A series of heteroaromatic Michael acceptors derived from camphor were synthesized via Claisen-Schmidt condensation and evaluated against bacterial phytopathogens. Antibacterial activity was determined <i>in vitro</i> against <i>Pseudomonas syringae</i> pv <i>syringae</i> (Pss), <i>P. syringae</i> pv <i>actinidiae</i> (Psa), and <i>Agrobacterium tumefaciens</i>. Compounds <b>3</b> (derived from (<i>R</i>)-camphor) and <b>4</b> (derived from (<i>S</i>)-camphor) showed the highest activity against Pss, with EC₅₀ values of 23.29 and 16.68 μg/mL, respectively. In <i>in vivo</i> assays on cherry branches, compounds <b>3</b> and <b>4</b> significantly reduced the development of necrotic lesions caused by Pss (76.31% and 73.03% reduction, respectively). <i>In silico</i> toxicity assessments indicated favorable safety profiles. These functionalized camphor derivatives represent potential bactericides for disease management in fruit crops.