Synthesis, characterization, DNA interaction and in vitro cytotoxicity activities of ruthenium(II) Schiff base complexes

DNA binding, cleavage and cytotoxicity characteristics of a novel Schiff base ligand 3-(benzothiazol-2-yliminomethyl)-naphthalen-2-ol and ruthenium(II) complexes have been investigated. The DNA interaction properties of the complexes have been investigated using absorption spectra, as well as gel electrophoresis studies. Intrinsic binding constant (Kb) has been estimated under similar set of experimental conditions. Absorption spectral study indicate that the ligand and ruthenium(II) complexes has intrinsic binding constant in the range of 1.4–7.2 × 104 M−1. Ruthenium(II) complexes show more binding ability than the ligand. Further, in vitro cytotoxicity study of the ligand and the complexes exhibited antitumor activity against HeLa and HEp2 tumor cells.

► Preparation of Schiff base ligand and its ruthenium(II) complexes.
► Structure of ligand was confirmed by X-ray analysis.
► DNA interaction and in vitro cytotoxicity activities were carried out.
► Ruthenium(II) complexes show more binding ability than the ligand.
► Ligand and the complexes showed better cytotoxicity against HeLa cancer cell line.