Metal Ion Complexes with Pyrazoles, Aziridines and Diaziridines – Synthesis and Biological Activity

Heterocyclic compounds containing nitrogen ions, like pyrazoles, aziridines, diaziridines and their metal ion complexes with Cu(II), Zn(II) and Ru(III) and others exhibit a wide range of biological activity, including mainly anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticancer, and antimicrobial properties. Biological significance of these molecules and thus their potential use in medicine has driven growing interest into their coordination chemistry. A knowledge of the relationship between the structure of chemical compounds and their activity is needed for the synthesis of the preparations possessing the most beneficial features. The choice of interposed substituents may improve biocidal and antitumor action, reduce the toxicity of the initial substance, or even completely eliminate its adverse effects for healthy tissues. The main aim of this review paper is to present the current state of knowledge concerning the synthesis and biological activity of complexes with small heterocyclic ligands containing transition metal ions.