Synthesis, characterization, cytotoxic activity and DNA binding properties of the novel dinuclear cobalt(III) complex with the condensation product of 2-acetylpyridine and malonic acid dihydrazide

A novel dinuclear cobalt(III) complex with the condensation product of 2-acetylpyridine and malonic acid dihydrazide, N′,N′2-bis[(1E)-1-(2-pyridyl)ethylidene]propanedihydrazide was synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, spectroscopy (NMR and infrared), and X-ray crystal analysis. The complex showed a moderate activity towards Artemia salina. The highest cytotoxic potential of the complex was observed on the epithelial breast cancer (MDA-361) cell line. The investigated complex induced apoptosis, the early apoptotic cells comprising 28.18%, compared to 5.64% of control cells in the same phase. The interaction of the complex with calf thymus DNA (CT-DNA) was monitored by blue shift and hyperchromism in the UV–vis spectra. The observed intrinsic binding constant (Kb = 4.2 × 105 M− 1) together with structural analysis of the complex indicate the groove binding.

Graphical abstractA novel binuclear cobalt(III) complex with the condensation product of 2-acetylpyridine and malonic acid dihydrazide was synthesized and characterized. The complex showed biological activity, including cytotoxity to MDA-361 breast cancer cell line, induced apoptosis, and bound to DNA.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideResearch highlights► A dinuclear Co(III) complex with the condensation product of 2-acetylpyridine and malonic acid dihydrazide. ► Cytotoxic action to the epithelial breast cancer MDA-361 cell line. ► Induction of apoptosis by the complex. ► DNA groove binding of the complex.