Penem inhibitors of bacterial signal peptidase

Abstract C(3)-Penem esters and amides having the (5 S )-configuration at the bridgehead are inhibitors of Escherichia coli leader peptidase, the best activity being seen with a 6-(1-acetoxyethyl) derivative having the (5 S , 6 S , 8 R )-stereochemistry. These compounds represent the first examples of potent inhibitors of bacterial signal peptidase.