DNA interaction studies of d(9) and d(10) metal complexes having Schiff base and polypyridyl ligands

Four mononuclear complexes of Cu(II) and Zn(II) having a Schiff-base ligand and 1,10-phenanthroline/2,2'-bipyridine have been synthesized and characterized. From electronic spectral and magnetic susceptibility data, octahedral geometry has been proposed for the complexes. DNA-binding behaviors of these complexes are studied by absorption titration, electrochemical, and viscosity methods. The results indicate that the complexes bind to calf thymus DNA in an intercalative mode. The gel electrophoresis results reveal that 1 cleaves pBR322 DNA effectively. The ligand and its complexes have been screened for their antimicrobial activities against a few microorganisms. The data exhibit that they are better antimicrobial agents than the ligand.