Synthesis and Characterization of Ni(II)/Zn(II) Metal Complexes Derived from Schiff Base and Ortho ‐Phenylenediamine: In vitro DNA Binding, Molecular Modeling and RBC Hemolysis

Herein, we report the synthesis and characterization of [Ni(L)(o–phenyl)]Cl ( 1 ) and [Zn(L)(o–phenyl)]Cl ( 2 ) new metal complexes derived from Schiff base ligand of 2–ethoxy–6–((pyrazin–2–ylimino)methyl)phenol ( L ) and ortho‐phenylenediamine. The biophysical studies of ligand and complexes 1 and 2 have been investigated with CT DNA and experimental outcomes show that both the complexes exhibited higher binding propensity towards DNA as compared to ligand L . Furthermore, molecular docking studies confirmed that both the complexes preferentially bind in the minor groove of DNA. Moreover, 1 trigger the condensation of CT–DNA into compact globules and rod‐shaped morphology revealing electrostatic and intermolecular π–π interactions of ligand moiety present in the DNA–bound complexes. Interestingly, 1 does not produce much hemolysis even at higher concentration of 100 μM. The work is expected to encourage the development of a newer metal complex whose ultimate target is DNA.