Synthesis, characterisation and biological activity of Co(III) complex with the condensation product of 2-(diphenylphosphino)benzaldehyde and ethyl carbazate

A cobalt(III) complex with the condensation derivative of 2-(diphenylphosphino)benzaldehyde and ethyl carbazate was synthesized. X-ray crystal structure was determined for both the ligand and the complex. In the cobalt(III) complex two deprotonated ligand molecules coordinate the metal atom in a distorted octahedral geometry by chelation through the PNO donor system formed by the phosphorus, the imine nitrogen and the carbonyl oxygen. The complex showed a moderate antibacterial activity and a strong cytotoxic activity, stronger than cisplatin. Based on cell cycle progression, apoptotic assays, spectroscopic and electrophoretic studies, it was shown that high cytotoxicity and moderate potential of induction of apoptosis are not consequence of interactions with DNA.