Hydrazones, hydrazones-based coinage metal complexes, and their biological applications

Abstract

Hydrazone-based compounds distinguished by their azomethine –NHNCH group and their respective coinage metal complexes have emerged as leading candidates in the search for effective anticancer and antibiotic agents. Because of their varied pharmacological potential and simplicity of synthesis, these compounds have been the subject of substantial research. Hydrazones exhibit versatile coordination chemistry, allowing for the formation of stable complexes with metals such as copper, silver, and gold. Hydrazone derivatives and their metal complexes demonstrate significant biological activities, displaying potent anticancer properties inducing apoptosis, inhibiting cell proliferation, and disrupting angiogenesis. Furthermore, they exhibit vigorous antibiotic activity by compromising microbial cell membranes and inhibiting essential enzymes. This review article highlights the versatility and effectiveness of hydrazone-based compounds and their coinage metal complexes reported for the last five years, underscoring their potential as next-generation diagnostic and therapeutic agents. Ongoing research focuses on optimizing these compounds for more excellent selectivity, potency, and biocompatibility, which is expected to advance their practical biological applications.