Novel cadmium complexes of mixed ligands sulfamethoxazole (SMX) derivatives as potent anticancer agents (MTT assay)

Schiff base of 4-amino-N-(5-methyl-1,2-oxazol-3-yl)benzenesulfonamide was derived from 2-hydoxybenzaldehyde. Cd (II) complexes were ([Cd(SMX)2Cl2] and [Cd(SB)2Cl2]) and its mixed ligand complex, [Cd(S.B)(1,10-Phen)Cl2]. 2H2O were synthesized and characterized on the basis of their elemental analysis, UV-Vis, FT-IR, TGA (Thermal analysis), and p-XRD. The in vitro antifungal activity against Aspergillus niger, Bipolaris oryzae, and antibacterial activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus licheniformis, Escherichia coli, and Staphylococcus aureus were performed. Moreover, their anticancer activity against A549 lungs cancer cell lines was also studied. Sulfamethoxazole, Schiff base ligand, and synthesized compounds were compared on the basis of their biological applications. The activity data proved that their biological potential increased upon coordination and Cd(SB)(1,10-Phen)Cl2]. 2H2O] was proved to be more potent and efficient biological agent than parent ligand, Schiff base, and the other Cd(II) complexes. It showed the highest antibacterial activity against one or more bacterial strains, presenting highest zone of inhibition (36–38 mm) for Bacillus licheniformis. It showed (27–30 mm) zone of inhibition for their antifungal screening against Aspergillus niger. In addition to these, [Cd(SB)(1,10-Phen)Cl2]. 2H2O] gave maximum reduction in cell viability against A549 lungs cell lines presenting strong potential of cytotoxicity and selectively targeting cancer cells.