Synthesis, characterization and DNA interaction of hexaaza macrotricyclic copper(II) complexes

► The studies on the interaction of Cu(II) complexes containing macrotricyclic complexes with DNA are rather limited. ► Copper(II) complexes of 14-membered hexaaza macrocyclic ligands have been synthesized and characterized. ► The crystal structure of the complexes [Cu(L1)(ClO4)2] and [Cu(L2)(ClO4)2] shows a distorted octahedral geometry. ► The two perchlorate ions are weakly coordinated to the metal ion in the axial position. ► The Cu(II) complexes cleave pUC 18 DNA oxidatively in the presence of H2O2.