Microbial activity of some heterocyclic Schiff bases and metal complexes: A review

Abstract

Microbial resistance to current drugs associated with food spoilage and complications in diseases’ treatment have resulted in increased mortality rate globally. Schiff bases are an important versatile class of organic compounds with notable pharmacological properties for various industrial applications. They are usually synthesized from a condensation reaction between a primary amine and a carbonyl. They have a wide range of activities against microbes and demonstrate good antimicrobial activity against fungi, bacteria, parasites, and viruses. The antimicrobial activity of Schiff base ligands is usually better upon metal complexation as a result of their chelating behaviour. The synthesis of Schiff bases and their metal complexes are well-documented. Therefore, it is important to categorize and compile them according to their biological significance. In this review, the antibacterial, antifungal, antiparasitic and antiviral activity of some selected heterocyclic Schiff bases and their metal complexes are discussed.

Keywords: Heterocyclic Schiff bases, Metal complexes, Antibacterial, Antifungal, Antiparasitic, Antiviral