Synthesis and characterization of unsymmetrical oxidovanadium complexes: DNA-binding, cleavage studies and antitumor activities

► Four unsymmetrical oxovanadium complexes have been synthesized and characterized. ► The complexes interact with DNA by intercalative mode and can efficiently cleave plasmid pBR 322 DNA. ► MTT assay showed that these four complexes possess significant anti-proliferative. ► Complex 1 was found to be the most potent antitumor agent among them.