Study on DNA Cleavage by the Hexaaza Macrocyclic Copper(II) Complex

Abstract

The Hexaaza macrocyclic copper(II) complex (Cu(II)L‐1,8‐Dihydroxyethyl‐1,3,6,8,10,13‐hexaazacyclotetradecane copper(II) perchlorate monohydrate) was synthesized and purified. The interaction of this complex with calf thymus DNA has been explored by using absorption, emission, viscosity measurements, electrochemical studies and DNA cleavage. All of the experimental results indicate that the complex bind to DNA by non‐classical or partial intercalative interaction. The complex has also been found to promote the cleavage plasmid pBR 322, in the presence of H2O2 and ascorbic acid. The cleaving mechanism for the Cu(II)L complex has been proposed.