Appraisal of DNA obligatory, DNA cleavage and in vitro anti-biogram efficiency of 9,10-phenanthrenequinone based metal complexes

•The complexes exhibit admirable DNA binding and chemical nuclease activity.•They have efficient antimicrobial effect against various pathogens.•They act as potential DNA targeting agents.•Leading to develop designing and synthesis of novel metal based drugs

This work presents the synthesis and characterization of four new metal(II) complexes of 9,10-phenanthrenequinone based Schiff base precursor. From UV–vis, FT-IR, 1H NMR, EPR and Raman spectral data, an octahedral geometry has been assigned to the complexes. The molar conductivity and magnetic moment measurements indicate the non-electrolytic and monomeric nature of the complexes. DNA binding ability of these complexes has been explored using diverse techniques viz UV–vis absorption, cyclic voltammetry, fluorescence spectroscopy and viscometry. Comparative DNA oxidative cleavage ability of the complexes has been accomplished under UV photo radiation on pBR322 DNA. These studies reveal that they are good metallointercalators and chemical nucleases. In addition, the biocidal action of the complexes is investigated against few pathogenic bacteria and fungi by well diffusion method. The screening data reveal that the complexes exhibit more efficient antimicrobial activity than the free ligand. These findings may lead to develop novel metal based drugs.

Graphical abstractThe synthesized 9,10-phenanthrenequinone based complexes have good in vitro DNA binding and cleavage efficacy. They are efficient antimicrobial and metallointercalators. These findings may lead to develop novel DNA targeting metallonucleases.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide