A review on microwave-assisted synthesis and biomedical applications of Schiff bases

Abstract

Schiff bases are versatile organic compounds widely used and synthesized by the condensation reaction of a different amino compound with aldehydes or ketones known as imine (-C=N-). Schiff base ligands are considered preferential ligands as they are simply synthesized by condensation. The Schiff base facilitates coordination with transition metal ions due to the presence of an azomethine group. These compounds have a wide range of applications in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries. Schiff bases form a new class of drugs that can strengthen the immune system and also be used in the treatment of various ailments. The electrophilic carbon and nucleophilic nitrogen of the C=N imine bond provide excellent binding opportunities with a variety of nucleophiles and electrophiles, which can be exploited to inhibit particular diseases, enzymes, or DNA replication. These compounds exhibit various biological activities including antifungal, antibacterial, antitubercular, antiviral, antimalarial, antidiabetic, anticancer, antioxidant, antidiuretic, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic and anti-HIV agents. In this review, synthesis and biological applications of Schiff bases synthesised using microwave irradiation are discussed.