Synthesis, characterization, and antimicrobial activity of Schiff bases derived from benzaldehydes and 3,3′-diaminodipropylamine

Six Schiff bases were prepared by reacting 3,3′-diaminodipropylamine with different benzaldehyde derivatives. The structures of these compounds were confirmed through different spectroscopic methods such as 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR and mass spectrometry. The prepared compounds were evaluated in vitro for their antimicrobial activity against a number of pathogenic Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and Candida by the twofold serial dilution method. These compounds showed bacteriostatic rather than bactericidal activities against Gram positive and Gram-negative bacteria. In addition, compound 3c exhibited significant anticandida activity with an MIC of 24 μg/ml and is, therefore, considered as a promising and potential antifungal agent; further modification can be done on the structure of the compound for a better drug candidate in the future.