Studies on synthesis, characterization, DNA interaction and cytotoxicity of ruthenium(II) Schiff base complexes

The synthesis and characterization of three hexa-coordinated ruthenium(II) Schiff base complexes of the type [RuCl(CO)(B)L] (B = PPh3/AsPh3/py and L = monobasic tridentate Schiff base ligand derived by the condensation of salicylaldehyde with 4-aminoantipyrine) are reported. IR, electronic, NMR and mass spectral data of the complexes are discussed. An octahedral geometry has been tentatively proposed for all the complexes. DNA binding properties of the ligand and its ruthenium(II) complexes have been investigated by electronic absorption spectroscopy. Two of the complexes were tested for DNA cleavage property. Finally, in vitro study of the cytotoxicity of the ligand and the complex [RuCl(CO)(PPh3)L] on HeLa were tested. The IC50 value for the ligand and the complex were 52.3 and 31.6 μm respectively.

Graphical abstractThe synthesis and characterization of three hexa-coordinated ruthenium(II) Schiff base complexes of the type [RuCl(CO)(B)L] (B = PPh3/AsPh3/py and L = monobasic tridentate Schiff base ligand derived by the condensation of salicylaldehyde with 4-aminoantipyrine) are reported. IR, electronic, NMR and mass spectral data of the complexes are discussed. An octahedral geometry has been tentatively proposed for all the complexes. DNA binding properties of the ligand and its ruthenium(II) complexes have been investigated by electronic absorption spectroscopy. Two of the complexes were tested for DNA cleavage property. Finally, in vitro study of the cytotoxicity of the ligand and the complex [RuCl(CO)(PPh3)L] on HeLa were tested. The IC50 value for the ligand and the complex were 52.3 m and 31.6 m respectively.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► The Ru metal complexes show more DNA binding ability. ► Ru complex posses high DNA cleavage activity than the corresponding Schiff base. ► The complex show nominal cytotoxicity.