Synthesis, characterization, antioxidant activities, and DNA-binding studies of (E)-N'-[1-(pyridin-2-yl)ethylidene]isonicotinohydrazide and its Pr(III) and Nd(III) complexes.

A new ligand, (E)-N'-[1-(pyridin-2-yl)ethylidene]isonicotinohydrazide (HL), was prepared by condensation of 2-acetylpyridine and isonicotinohydrazide in ethanol. Its two lanthanide(III) complexes, [Nd(III)(L)(2)(NO(3))(CH(3)OH)(2)]·CH(3)CH(2)OH (1), and [Pr(III)(L)(2)(NO(3))(CH(3)OH)(2)]·CH(3)CH(2)OH (2), have been synthesized and characterized on the basis of element analyses, molar conductivities and IR spectra. The structure of complex 2 has been confirmed by X-ray diffraction. In addition, the DNA-binding properties of the two complexes have been investigated by electronic absorption spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, circular dichroic (CD) spectroscopy and viscosity measurements. The experimental results suggest that the two complexes bind to DNA via a groove binding mode, and the binding affinity of complex 2 is higher than that of complex 1. Furthermore, the antioxidant activities (superoxide and hydroxyl radical) of the ligand and its metal complexes were determined by spectrophotometry methods in vitro. These complexes were found to possess potent antioxidant activity and be superior to standard antioxidant like mannitol.