Synthesis, characterization and DNA-binding of the mononuclear dioxouranium(VI) complex with ciprofloxacin

The mononuclear complex of the second-generation quinolone antibacterial agent ciprofloxacin with UO22+ has been prepared and characterized with physicochemical and spectroscopic techniques. In this complex, ciprofloxacin acts as a bidentate deprotonated ligand bound to the metal through the pyridone oxygen and one carboxylate oxygen. The central U(VI) atom is six-coordinate and a slightly distorted octahedral geometry is proposed. The lowest energy model structure of the complex has been determined with molecular modelling calculations. The biological activity of the complex has been evaluated by examining its ability to bind to calf-thymus DNA.

Graphical abstractThe synthesis, characterization and interaction with calf-thymus DNA of the neutral mononuclear dioxouranium(VI) complex with the second-generation quinolone antibacterial agent ciprofloxacin are presented.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide