A novel Schiff base ligand (L) has been synthesized using 4-(2-aminoethyl)benzene-1,2-diol (dopamine)
and terephthalaldehyde. This hexadentate ligand has been used to synthesize cobalt(II), nickel(II),
copper(II) and zinc(II) complexes with stoichiometry (1:2). Several techniques were used to characterize
the compounds, including elemental analysis, molar conductivity, magnetic moment, mass spectra,
cyclic voltammetry, SEM and powder XRD. Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II) and Zn(II) have octahedral geometry
based on physico-chemical characterization studies. Using cyclic voltammetry (CV), the redox
properties of the metal complexes were extensively studied. These metal complexes were studied by
SEM analysis to determine their surface morphology Solvatochromic behaviours of synthesized
compounds have been assessed using UV-vis absorption spectroscopy. By disc diffusion method, the
ligand and its metal(II) complexes were tested for antibacterial activity against two Gram-positive
bacteria, two Gram-negative bacteria and one fungus. Using the HRBC membrane stabilization method,
the Schiff base ligand and its copper(II) complex were evaluated for their anti-inflammatory properties.
In vitro anticancer activity of the copper(II) complex was investigated by MTT assay on the human
breast cancer cell line (MCF-7). According to the results, the copper(II) complex inhibits breast cell
growth better than the Schiff base. Using an α-amylase inhibitory assay method, the ligand and its
copper(II) complex were also tested for their antidiabetic effects in vitro. In comparison with the
Schiff base ligand, the copper(II) complex showed the best activity.