Synthesis and structural studies of gallium(III) and indium(III) complexes of 2-acetylpyridine thiosemicarbazones

Four 2-acetylpyridine 4N-alkyl thiosemicarbazones, and their Ga(III) and In(III) complexes have been prepared and characterised by fluorescence, UV–Vis, IR, 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry and X-ray crystallographic analysis. Comparison of the crystal structures gave an insight into the nature of the complexes formed, demonstrating a preference for [ML2]+ type complexes with gallium and [MLX3] species with indium. Stability studies on two candidates indicated that complex [InL3Cl2MeOH] was stable to chemical degradation for prolonged periods in human serum, giving this complex potential for further biological evaluation.

Graphical abstractCrystallographic and spectroscopic investigations provide insight into the formation of new gallium and indium thiosemicarbazone complexes. There is potential for further biological evaluation based on stability studies in human serum.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide