Synthesis, characterization and anticancer activity of new chiral Pd(II)-complexes derived from unsymmetrical α-diimine ligands

A set of new diastereopure unsymmetrical α-diimine ligands 2a–d derived from methylglyoxal and optically pure primary amines 1a–d afforded the new chiral Pd(II)-complexes (S,S)-3a, (S,S)-3b, (S,S)-3c, and (1S, 2S, 3S, 5R)-3d. All compounds have been characterized by IR, 1H, and 13C NMR spectroscopies along with MS-FAB+ spectrometry. The crystal and molecular structure for the complexes 3a, 3b and 3d have been fully confirmed by single-crystal X-ray studies. Likewise, complexes 3a–d have also been screened for their in vitro cytotoxicity against different classes of cancer: leukemia (K-562 CML), colon cancer (HCT-15), human breast adenocarcinoma (MCF-7), central nervous system (U-251 Glio) and prostate cancer (PC-3) cell lines.

Optically pure α-diimines and their chiral palladium complexes were synthesized and characterized. Studies in vitro of these palladium complexes have displayed growth inhibition against different classes of cancer.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► New unsymmetrical α-diimine ligands from methylglyoxal and optically pure amines.
► New chiral Pd(II)-complexes and their molecular structures.
► Anticancer activity and low toxicity.