Transition metal complexes of isonicotinic acid (2-hydroxybenzylidene)hydrazide

A new series of transition metal complexes of Schiff base isonicotinic acid (2-hydroxybenzylidene)hydrazide, HL, have been synthesized. The Schiff base reacted with Cu(II), Ni(II), Co(II), Mn(II), Fe(III) and UO2(II) ions as monobasic tridentate ligand to yield mononuclear complexes of 1:2 (metal:ligand) except that of Cu(II) which form complex of 1:1 (metal:ligand). The ligand and its metal complexes were characterized by elemental analyses, IR, UV-vis, mass and H-1 NMR spectra, as well as magnetic moment, conductance measurements, and thermal analyses. All complexes have octahedral configurations except Cu(II) complex which has an extra square planar geometry distorted towards tetrahedral. While, the UO2(II)) complex has its favour hepta-coordination. The ligand and its metal complexes were tested against one strain Gram +ve bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus), Gram -ve bacteria (Escherichia coli), and Fungi (Candida albicans). The tested compounds exhibited higher antibacterial activities. (C) 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.