Synthesis, characterization, antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of a bidentate Schiff base ligand and its metal complexes

Mn(III) and Cu(II) complexes based on bis(N-(3-methoxy-salicylidene)-4-amino-phenyl)ether (H2L) have been successfully synthesized and characterized systematically by IR spectra, elemental analyses and X-ray single crystal diffraction. The antioxidant activity of the ligand and its metal complexes have been determined by DPPH, superoxide, hydroxyl and ABTS radical scavenging methods in vitro, suggesting that the Cu(II) complex exhibits greater antioxidant activity against DPPH, superoxide, hydroxyl and ABTS radicals than those of the ligand and the Mn(III) complex. Furthermore, the antimicrobial effects of the tested compounds have been tested against the growth of bacteria in vitro to assess their bactericidal properties. It has been found that the Cu(II) complex has lower MIC values and exhibits better antimicrobial effects than the free ligand and the Mn(III) complex.

Graphical abstractMn(III) and Cu(II) complexes based on bis(N-(3-methoxy-salicylidene)-4-amino-phenyl)ether (H2L) have been synthesized and characterized. The antioxidant activity and antimicrobial effects of the ligand and its Mn(III) and Cu(II) complexes have been determined. The antioxidant activity and antimicrobial effects of the Cu(II) complex are stronger than the ligand and the Mn(III) complex.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide