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 EC₅₀ 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.