Antibacterial compounds targeting isoprenoid biosynthesis

With the rise in resistance to antibiotics such as methicillin, there is a need for new drugs. The invention provides small molecules that inhibit cellular drug targets such as UPPS and FPPS by interacting with binding pockets, thereby preventing enzyme function. Compounds described herein are also active against Staphylococcus aureus (MIC90˜0.25 μg/mL), can potently synergize with methicillin (fractional inhibitory concentration index=0.25), and are protective in a mouse infection model. The invention therefore provides numerous compounds for anti-bacterial treatments and for restoring sensitivity to drugs such as methicillin, using combination therapies.