Synthesis, characterization, cytotoxicity and antibacterial activity of an anthracenyl-linked bis(pyrazolyl)methane ligand and its zinc(II) complexes

Three novel Zn(II) complexes (1–3) with 1,1′-(anthracen-9-ylmethylene)bis(1H-pyrazole) (L2) have been prepared and structurally characterized by X-ray crystallography. Among them, 1 is a binuclear Zn(II) complex while 2 and 3 are mononuclear. The in vitro cytotoxic and antibacterial activities of these complexes were also evaluated. The three complexes exhibit cytotoxic specificity and significant antitumor activity. The MIC50 value of complex 1 against Pseudomonas putida reaching 0.011 μg/mL much lower than that the positive control chloromycin (0.182 μg/mL), indicates that complex 1 is a potent antibacterial agent. [Display omitted] Three novel Zn(II) complexes with 1,1′-(anthracen-9-ylmethylene)bis(1H-pyrazole) have been prepared and characterized by X-ray crystallography. Among them, 1 is a binuclear Zn(II) complex and exhibits strong antibacterial activity against Pseudomonas putida. •A bis(pyrazolyl)methane ligand and its ZnII complexes have been characterized by single X-ray diffraction.•1 is a binuclear ZnII complex.•Complex 1 displayed the most potent antibacterial activity against Pseudomonas putida.