Biological screening of divalent transition metal decanoates owning powerful antimicrobial and cytotoxic properties

The prevalence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is on the rise worldwide as it is an emerging global health challenge of our time. The antimicrobial resistance of the bacteria reduces antibiotic efficiency and increases bacterial morbidity and mortality. To combat the current epidemic of antibiotic-resistance infections, alternative antibiotics must be developed. An investigation of antibacterial potential was conducted using a novel coordination compound synthesized from transition divalent metal ions with the decanoic acid ligand. Spectroscopic techniques, namely UV-Visible, and FT-IR were used to confirm the complex formation. The unique morphologies and elemental composition of metal decanoates are analyzed with a scanning electron microscope (SEM). All the metal complexes were tested for antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli, Klebsilla pneumonia, Staphylococcus aureus, and Streptococcus mutans using the agar well diffusion method. Mn(II), Ni(II), and Zn(II) metal decanoates showed promising results as better bactericidal agents against both Gram positive and negative bacterial strains due to the chelation mechanism. In addition, the antifungal effect against Candida albicans was also investigated, wherein all the metal complexes showed enhanced performance. Cell viability of metal decanoates and ligand was examined by MTT assay using HeLa cervical cancer cell line. Thus, these findings promote metal decanoate complexes as a potential candidate for practical applications for ongoing antimicrobial resistance.

Automated summary

The global prevalence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is increasing, presenting a significant global health challenge. Bacterial resistance reduces antibiotic effectiveness and raises morbidity and mortality. Novel coordination compounds were investigated for their antibacterial potential using transition divalent metal ions and the decanoic acid ligand. Spectroscopic techniques confirmed complex formation, while scanning electron microscopy analyzed their unique morphologies. Metal decanoates showed promising bactericidal activity against both Gram positive and negative bacteria, as well as enhanced antifungal effects. These findings highlight metal decanoate complexes as potential candidates for mitigating antimicrobial resistance.