Synthesis, characterization, cytotoxicity and antimicrobial studies on bis(N-furfuryl-N-(2-phenylethyl)dithiocarbamato-S,S')zinc(II) and its nitrogen donor adducts.

[Zn(fpedtc)2] (1), [Zn(fpedtc)2(py)] (2), [Zn(fpedtc)2(1,10-phen)] (3) and [Zn(fpedtc)2(2,2'-bipy)] (4) (where fpedtc = N-furfuryl-N-(2-phenylethyl)dithiocarbamate, py = pyridine, 1,10-phen = 1,10-phenanthroline and 2,2'-bipy = 2,2'-bipyridine) were synthesized. Characterization of the complexes were achieved by IR and NMR ((1)H and (13)C) spectra and in addition, for 2 and 3, by X-ray crystallography. Single crystal X-ray structural analysis of 2 and 3 showed that complex 2 is almost half way between trigonal bipyramidal and square pyramidal and complex 3 has a distorted octahedral geometry. Zn-N distances in 2 is shorter than that found in a six coordinate complex 3 due to the change in coordination number. These complexes were also screened for in vitro antibacterial and antifungal activities and significant activities have been found. In vitro cytotoxic activity of all the synthesized complexes was evaluated on HeLa cell line. Complex 1 exhibits maximum inhibitory effect at a concentration of 40 μg mL(-1) on HeLa cell line.