Recent Advances in the Biological Studies of Iron and Vanadium Schiff Base Complexes: A Comparative Review

Abstract

Schiff base metal complexes have gained considerable attention in recent years because of their
diverse biological activities and potential pharmaceutical applications. Among transition metal
complexes, iron and vanadium Schiff base complexes are widely investigated due to their
remarkable antimicrobial, antioxidant, anticancer, and catalytic properties. The coordination of
Schiff base ligands with iron and vanadium enhances the stability, bioavailability, and biological
effectiveness of these compounds. Iron Schiff base complexes are recognized for their low toxicity,
redox behavior, and significant antibacterial and antifungal activities, whereas vanadium Schiff
base complexes exhibit excellent insulin-mimetic, antimicrobial, and anticancer properties. Recent
studies have demonstrated that these complexes interact effectively with microbial cell
membranes, enzymes, and DNA, leading to inhibition of microbial growth and cellular damage.
Comparative investigations reveal that vanadium complexes generally show stronger
antimicrobial and cytotoxic activities, while iron complexes possess better antioxidant potential
and biocompatibility. The present review summarizes recent advances in the synthesis, biological
properties, and antimicrobial applications of iron and vanadium Schiff base complexes, with
emphasis on their mechanisms of action, therapeutic potential, and future prospects in medicinal
chemistry and drug development.