Synthesis, Application and Biological Activities of Ligand, Schiff base and Metal Complexes: Review

Hiam M. OsmanDepartment of Physical Sciences, Chemistry Division, College of Science, Jazan University, P.O. Box 114, Jazan 45142, Saudi ArabiaLeena IbrahimDepartment of Physical Sciences, Chemistry Division, College of Science, Jazan University, P.O. Box 114, Jazan 45142, Saudi ArabiaSara M. YounesChemical Engineering Department, Borg El Arab Higher Institute Engineering and Technology, Alexandria, Egypt

Vol 10 No 4 (2026): Volume 10, Issue 4, April 2026 | Pages: 332-346

International Research Journal of Innovations in Engineering and Technology

OPEN ACCESS | Research Article | Published Date: 30-04-2026

doi Logo doi.org/10.47001/IRJIET/2026.104048

Abstract

Schiff bases are created by stirring, catalyst-free, reflux, and conventional methods using a range of aldehydes, ketones, and amines. Since complexation usually increases activity, understanding the properties of both ligands and metals may result in the synthesis of highly active compounds. The Schiff base was characterized by an imine or azomethine (-CH=N-) group and is generally formed through the condensation reaction of carbonyl compounds (like ketones or aldehydes) with molecules containing an amine group. Also, Schiff bases have wide-ranging uses in magnetic and electronic materials, catalysts in organic reactions, corrosion prevention, cosmetics, show many biological activities and the pharmaceutical industry. Furthermore, Schiff bases represent a new class of drugs capable of enhancing immunity and addressing various diseases, including liver cancer (HepG2) and colon cancer in human cancer cell lines. Consequently, medicinal chemists are presently focused on creating new chemotherapeutic Schiff bases along with their metal complexes.  This overview compiles the various synthesis techniques and uses of Schiff bases and related metal complexes.

Keywords

Schiff bases, Metal complexes, condensation, chemotherapeutic, cancer


Citation of this Article

Hiam M. Osman, Leena Ibrahim, & Sara M. Younes. (2026). Synthesis, Application and Biological Activities of Ligand, Schiff base and Metal Complexes: Review. International Research Journal of Innovations in Engineering and Technology - IRJIET, 10(4), 332-346. Article DOI https://doi.org/10.47001/IRJIET/2026.104048

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