First-Row Transition Metal Complexes with Schiff Base Ligands: A Review on Recent Advancements

Schiff base ligands exhibit broad range of application in medicine, pharmacy, coordination chemistry, biological activities, industries, food packages, dyes and polymer and also used as an O2 detector. In recent years, the researchers have attracted enormous attention toward Schiff bases and their metal complexes owing to numerous applications in pharmacology such as antiviral, antifungal, antimicrobial, antimalarial, antituberculosis, anticancer, anti-HIV, catalytic application in oxidation of organic compounds, and nanotechnology. The unique coordination behaviour of these ligands, coupled with the diverse electronic and structural properties of transition metals, makes them promising candidates for various industrial and biomedical applications. Schiff base complexes with first-series transition metals have been widely recognized due to their versatile applications in catalysis, bioactivity, and material sciences. This review studies the recent advancements in the synthesis, structural characterization, and functional applications of Schiff base complexes with first-row transition metals. Particular focus is given to their catalytic performance in oxidation-reduction reactions, highlighting their significance in sustainable catalysis. In addition, their biological activities, including antimicrobial, anticancer, and antioxidant properties, are thoroughly analyzed, with an emphasis on structure-activity relationships. Despite their potential, challenges such as solubility, stability, and selectivity persist, necessitating further research. Future perspectives are discussed, emphasizing innovations innovel mechanistic approaches to enhance functionality. By consolidating recent findings, this review aims to provide a strong foundation for future research and technological advancements in Schiff base transition metal chemistry.