Synthesis, structure, and antitumor activity of N-salicyloyl-N'-(2-furylthiocarbonyl)hydrazine and its copper(II) complex

Abstract

N-Salicyloyl-N'-(2-furylthiocarbonyl)hydrazine (H2sfth) and its Cu(II) complex [Cu(sfth)] were prepared and characterized by physicochemical studies. The IR and ESR spectral studies imply dibasic tetradentate behavior of the ligand bonding through "thiolo" sulfur, enolic oxygen, and hydrazinic nitrogens in a polymeric structure. The electronic spectrum of the complex indicates a square-planar geometry around Cu(II). Maximum antitumor activity was observed when 25 mg/kg dose levels of H2sfth and Cu(sfth) were injected intraperitoneally in mice bearing either solid fibrosarcoma or ascites Dalton's lymphoma. However, H2sfth appeared to possess better antitumor activity as demonstrated by higher T/C (percent) values than those observed for Cu(sfth). The appearance of lymphocytes, leukocytes, and macrophages within the tumor mass 2-6 days after treatment are indicative of involvement of the host's immune system.