Comparative biological applications of Zn(II) and Cd(II) thiosemicarbazone complexes

Area of Science:

• Medicinal inorganic chemistry
• Coordination chemistry

Background:

• Thiosemicarbazone ligands and their metal complexes are vital in medicinal inorganic chemistry.
• They exhibit diverse coordination and broad pharmacological potential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent studies (2020-2025) comparing biological applications of Zn(II) and Cd(II) thiosemicarbazone complexes.
• To analyze structure-activity relationships influencing their pharmacological effects.

Main Methods:

• Comparative evaluation of biological activities (antimicrobial, anticancer, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory).
• Analysis of structure-activity relationships based on ligand denticity, donor atoms, and metal ion identity.
• Review of recent literature (2020-2025).

Main Results:

• Metal coordination significantly enhances biological activities compared to free ligands.
• Chelation improves lipophilicity, cellular uptake, and biomolecular interactions.
• Tridentate N,N,S- and N,S,O-donor ligands generally show higher activity than bidentate N,S ligands.
• Zn(II) and Cd(II) complexes exhibit distinct biological responses, influenced by metal ion properties.

Conclusions:

• Zn(II) and Cd(II) thiosemicarbazone complexes are promising for multifunctional therapeutic applications.
• Ligand design and metal ion choice are crucial for optimizing pharmacological behavior.
• Further research is needed on antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.