Exploring NVC-422: A Robust N-Chlorotaurine Analog with Potent Antimicrobial and Cytotoxic Profiles

Neutrophils produce hypochlorous acid (HOCl) during the oxidative burst to combat invading pathogens, and the reaction of excess HOCl with taurine leads to the formation of N-chlorotaurine (NCT), an antimicrobial agent. NCT can be further modified under certain conditions to form N,N-dichlorotaurine (NNDCT). The study introduces NVC-422, a stabilized form of N-chlorotaurine derived from 2,2-dimethyltaurine, and examines its chemical properties, antimicrobial effectiveness, and cytotoxicity.

NVC-422 demonstrated potent antimicrobial activity against a range of microbial strains, including antibiotic-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus faecium. The compound showed a broad-spectrum efficacy with minimum bactericidal concentrations effective against both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. Against Candida species, the minimum fungicidal concentrations were also determined.

In vitro cytotoxicity tests revealed that NVC-422 has a similar toxicity profile to NNDCT, with a 50% cytotoxicity level comparable to that of NNDCT. The compound displayed rapid, pH-dependent antimicrobial action, with complete eradication of Escherichia coli and S. aureus within minutes at a specific concentration.

In a rat model of E. coli-infected granulating wounds, NVC-422 treatment significantly reduced bacterial loads and accelerated wound healing, suggesting its potential as a topical antimicrobial agent. The study's findings indicate the promise of NVC-422 in treating microbial infections and its potential application in wound care.