DNA Binding Activity of Functionalized Schiff Base Metal Complexes

Abstract

Based on our recent research experience, this review highlights the DNA binding of salen, salphen and salnaphen metal complexes, with a focus on G-quadruplex (G4) DNA, which is crucial in peculiar genomic regions and in cancer regulation. Such metal complexes have in fact shown significant ability to bind and stabilize G4 structures. We will point out the role of the metal center and of the ligand substituents affecting their binding and selectivity toward G4s, supported by experimental and computational studies.