Synthesis, structure, and antimicrobial activity of a series of novel heterocyclic azo-colorants derived from α-dicarbonyl compounds

Key Points

• To synthesize and evaluate the antimicrobial activity of novel azo-hydrazones derived from α-dicarbonyl compounds.
• Synthesis of six novel α-dicarbonyl-derived azo-hydrazones.
• Evaluation of antibacterial activity and toxicity profiles.
• Molecular docking and ADMET analyses to confirm drug-like properties.
• Identified six novel compounds with broad-spectrum antibacterial efficacy.
• Demonstrated low toxicity and high bioavailability in in vitro tests.
• Molecular docking indicated strong binding affinities, supporting the inhibitory potential.