Pyrazolone incorporating amino acid metallointercalators as effective DNA targets: Synthesis and in vitro biocidal evaluation

•Synthesis of novel effective DNA targeting amino acid based metal chelates•The synthesized complexes are good intercalative binders.•Synthesis of excellent antimicrobial agents•Complexes are good antimicrobial agents against various pathogens.

Three novel mixed-ligand complexes using pyrazolone derivative (4-chloro-benzylidene-4-aminoantipyrine) as primary ligand and l-methionine as co-ligand, were synthesized and characterized by physico-chemical analytical techniques. The DNA interaction of these complexes was investigated by electronic absorption spectroscopy, viscosity, cyclic voltammetry and gel electrophoresis measurements. The results indicate that the complexes bind to DNA through intercalation and act as efficient cleaving agents. The in vitro antibacterial and antifungal assay indicates that these complexes are good antimicrobial agents against various pathogens.

Graphical abstractThe synthesized effective DNA targeting amino acid metal chelates are valuable in designing novel agents for targeting tumor cells as well as setting the stage for the synthesis of metal nuclease drugs for clinical applications.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide