In this paper, we report the synthesis, characterization and antitumor studies of Co(II), Ni(II) and Cu(II) complexes with two potentially hexadentate ligands. Antitumor activity of the prepared ligands and its complexes against human breast cancer cell line MCF-7 was determined. The level of total protein, nucleic acids (RNA and DNA) and nitric oxide (NO) in MCF-7 treated cells was estimated. Antitumor activities of the complexes are accompanied with over-production of free and superoxide radicals allowed reactive oxygen species-mediated tumor cell death. The results show significant antitumor activity comparable to cisplatin
MCF-7, Nucleic acids, Antitumor activities, Transition metal complexes, Hexadentate hydrazonic ligands, Cytotoxicity