Synthesis, characterization, DNA binding properties, fluorescence studies and antioxidant activity of transition metal complexes with hesperetin-2-hydroxy benzoyl hydrazone.

A novel Schiff-base ligand (H(5)L), hesperetin-2-hydroxy benzoyl hydrazone, and its copper (II), zinc (II) and nickel (II) complexes (M.H(3)L) [M(II) = Cu, Zn, Ni], have been synthesized and characterized. The ligand and Zn (II) complex exhibit green and blue fluorescence under UV light and the fluorescent properties of the ligand and Zn (II) complex in solid state and different solutions were investigated. In addition, DNA binding properties of the ligand and its metal complexes have been investigated by electronic absorption spectroscopy, fluorescence spectra, ethidium bromide displacement experiments, iodide quenching experiments, salt effect and viscosity measurements. Results suggest that all the compounds bind to DNA via an intercalation binding mode. Furthermore, the antioxidant activity of the ligand and its metal complexes was determined by superoxide and hydroxyl radical scavenging methods in vitro. The metal complexes were found to possess potent antioxidant activity and be better than the free ligand alone and some standard antioxidants like vitamin C and mannitol.