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 in vitro against Pseudomonas syringae pv syringae (Pss), P. syringae pv actinidiae (Psa), and Agrobacterium tumefaciens . Compounds 3 (derived from ( R )-camphor) and 4 (derived from ( S )-camphor) showed the highest activity against Pss, with EC 50 values of 23.29 and 16.68 μg/mL, respectively. In in vivo assays on cherry branches, compounds 3 and 4 significantly reduced the development of necrotic lesions caused by Pss (76.31% and 73.03% reduction, respectively). In silico toxicity assessments indicated favorable safety profiles. These functionalized camphor derivatives represent potential bactericides for disease management in fruit crops.