Synthesis and characterization of some new Schiff base complexes of group 13 elements, ab initio studies, cytotoxicity and reaction with hydrogen peroxide

A novel tetradentate Schiff base, naphthabza-H2 = N,N′-bis(naphthylidene)-2-aminobenzylamine, and a series of aluminum(III), gallium(III), and indium(III) complexes with general formula, MLNO3, were synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, 1H NMR, FT-IR, UV–Vis spectroscopy and thermogravimetric method. The product of the reaction of complexes with hydrogen peroxide was characterized by similar techniques. According to the ab initio calculations aluminum and gallium complexes have five-coordinated structures and indium complex is a six-coordinated one. Also, the growth inhibitory effects of the complexes toward K562 cancer cell line were measured and the results for these complexes are as follows: Al > Ga > In.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► The structural and electronic properties of complexes have been investigated by means of ab initio computational techniques. ► A new application of hydrogen peroxide has been reported. ► The biological activity of the complexes against the cancer cell line was evaluated.