The Tyler Lab's research has been centered on the synthesis and characterization of biologically relevant Cu(II) and Ni(II) transition metal complexes containing Schiff base ligands. New Cu(II) complexes that have recently been characterized have exhibited side reactions that include the imine reacting with solvent methanol or water to yield either complete or partial hydrolysis of the C=N bond; however, no such reactivity is apparent in the Ni(II) analogues. Current research efforts are aimed at identifying the reaction conditions that lead to this reactivity in an effort to control these side reactions. The syntheses and spectroscopic characterization of the ligands and the corresponding metal complexes will be presented and discussed along with experimental efforts aimed at elucidating the pathway for side reactions. Additionally, initial biological studies with these complexes that are aimed at ascertaining the antibacterial properties and nuclease activity will also be presented.
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