Spectroscopic, Physical, Thermal, and Magnetic Studies of N-[Tris(Hydroxyl Methyl)Methyl]Glycine (Tricine, L) Complexes and Their Applications Against Tumor Activity

New metal complexes derived from the interaction of tricine with some metal salts (Cu2+, Co2+, Zn2+, Cd2+, and Ni2+) were synthesized and characterized by spectral (IR, UV-vis., EPR, mass, 1H-NMR), magnetic, conductance, and thermal (TGA measurements) analyses. The results suggest that L coordinates in a mono-, bi- and/or tridentate manners via the COO, NH, and OH groups. Also, the results suggest that the carboxylate group is bonded to the metal ions in two forms depending on the type of solvent and the pH of the reaction mixture. Spectral and magnetic studies suggest an octahedral geometry around the investigated metal ions. Moreover, L coordinates in a tridentate manner. Material studio program has been used for calculating HUMO, LUMO, and DFT parameters on the atoms to confirm the geometry of complexes. The cytotoxic activities of complexes against human tumor cells have been screened. The Cu2+ complex showed the highest activities using colorimetric assay.