Biological aspects of Schiff base-metal complexes derived from benzaldehydes: an overview

Schiff bases are stable imines containing C=N, where N is bonded to an alkyl or aryl group, but not with hydrogen and are prepared by condensation of aliphatic or aromatic primary amine with carbonyl compounds. They have the general formula R1R2C = NR3, where R-3 not equal H. The presence of the basic donor N atom and the stability of the imine function render Schiff bases as the most favored ligands that have the ability to stabilize metal ions in different oxidation states. The chelating environment in a Schiff base profoundly influences the electron distribution in the coordination sphere of metal in a complex and thereby regulates the property of the compounds in a big way. The structural diversity in some of the metal complexes with multidentate Schiff base ligands has triggered a wide range of applications of this class of compounds in sensors, catalysis, biology, medicines, and photonics. This review compiles the synthesis and biological activities (antimicrobial, antioxidant, anticancer, antitubercular, DNA interaction studies) of benzaldehyde-based Schiff bases and their metal complexes.