Fleroxacin (CAS 79660-72-3)

Fleroxacin, with the CAS number 79660-72-3, is a synthetic antibiotic belonging to the fluoroquinolone class. This chemical is characterized by the presence of a fluorine atom, which is integral to its potent antimicrobial action against a wide range of bacterial pathogens. Fleroxacin operates by targeting bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, two key enzymes involved in DNA replication, transcription, and repair. The mechanism of action involves the formation of a stable, ternary complex between the drug, the enzyme, and DNA, which inhibits the function of these enzymes. This interference prevents the supercoiling of DNA that is necessary for normal bacterial cell processes, leading to the disruption of DNA function, replication, and ultimately bacterial cell death. In research settings, fleroxacin has been extensively used to study the dynamics of bacterial DNA manipulation and the cellular consequences of DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV inhibition. This research provides insights into the molecular basis of antibiotic action and resistance, helping to explain how modifications to the quinolone structure can impact their efficacy and resistance profiles. Moreover, fleroxacin serves as a model compound for developing newer fluoroquinolones with improved efficacy and reduced resistance potential, contributing to the broader understanding of antibiotic design and bacterial resistance mechanisms.