Synthesis, crystal structure and biological studies of the highly anticancer active compound trans-dichloridobis(4-methyl-2-N-(2-pyridylmethylene)-aminophenol)ruthenium(II)

► A new trans-dichloridoruthenium(II) compound is formed. ► A tridentate ligand coordinates in a bidentate mode due to intramolecular hydrogen bonding. ► A ruthenium compound with high antitumour activity and DNA binding affinity is reported.