Synthesis, characterization and cytotoxicity of mixed-ligand complexes of palladium(II) with 2, 2′-biquinoline/1, 4-diaminobutane and 4-toluenesulfonyl-L-amino acid dianion

► Seven palladium(II) complexes have been synthesized. ► Crystal structure of the complex 7 has been determined. ► The most complexes exert cytotoxic effects with selectivity. ► Amino acids, N-containing ligands and metal ions have important effect on cytotoxicity.