Synthesis, characterization and in vitro DNA binding and cleavage studies of Cu(II)/Zn(II) dipeptide complexes

► Dipeptide complexes of Cu(II)/Zn(II) were synthesized and characterized. ► Binding studies revealed non-covalent interaction via groove binding. ► Tethering of peptides to metal enhances the DNA binding affinity. ► Complexes cleave pBR322 DNA effectively.