Metal Complexes: Synthesis, Structure, and Biological Activity

Dear Colleagues,

Research on complex (coordination) compounds represents a fundamental and continuously evolving area of modern inorganic and bioinorganic chemistry, with significant relevance for understanding the structure, stability, reactivity, and biological activity of metal-based systems. Contemporary studies in this field are focused on the rational design and synthesis of coordination complexes with carefully selected ligands, where N-, O-, and S-donor functionalities play a crucial role in defining the coordination environment and electronic properties of the metal center.

Newly synthesized complexes are comprehensively characterized using advanced spectroscopic techniques, complemented by single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis, which enables reliable structure–property correlations. In addition to structural characterization, thermodynamic and kinetic investigations provide essential insight into the stability of metal complexes and their reactivity toward biologically relevant species, shedding light on substitution mechanisms, redox behavior, and solution equilibria under conditions relevant to biological systems.

Within the framework of bioinorganic chemistry, particular attention is devoted to the investigation of interactions between coordination complexes and biomolecules such as DNA and proteins, including serum albumins. These studies contribute to a deeper understanding of binding modes, conformational changes, and transport processes that govern the biological fate of metal complexes. Evaluation of biological activity further includes systematic cytotoxicity and antitumor assays, as well as antimicrobial investigations, which together allow for the assessment of the therapeutic potential of coordination compounds. Establishing clear relationships between molecular structure, stability, reactivity, and biological effects is essential for elucidating mechanisms of action and guiding the development of metal-based agents with improved efficacy and selectivity.

This Special Issue of the journal Crystals, entitled Metal Complexes: Synthesis, Structure, and Biological Activity, aims to bring together recent advances in the synthesis, characterization, and functional evaluation of coordination compounds, providing a comprehensive overview of current research trends and future directions in this interdisciplinary field.

Dr. Ana Kesic
Dr. Jovana V. Bogojeski
Guest Editors

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