Imine Functionalized Triazole: An Efficient Probe for Ru(III) Recognition and Evaluation of Antioxidant and Anticancer Properties

ABSTRACT

A new triazole‐functionalized Schiff base probe (GIVA) has been rationally designed and synthesized for the selective recognition of Ru(III). The chemosensory performance of GIVA was systematically investigated through UV–visible absorption spectroscopy, demonstrating remarkable sensitivity and high selectivity toward Ru(III) over competing metal ions. The subsequent complex formation has been confirmed by using ¹ H NMR, FT‐IR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry and DFT analysis. The detection limit (LOD) was determined to be 0.66 × 10 ⁻⁷  M, highlighting the excellent sensing capability of the probe. Job's plot analysis revealed a 1:1 binding stoichiometry between GIVA and Ru(III), while reversibility studies using EDTA established the recyclable nature of the sensing system. Beyond metal ion recognition, GIVA exhibited biological potential, showing significant free radical scavenging activity with an IC ₅₀ value of 0.63 μM, indicative of its enhanced antioxidant efficiency. Furthermore, in vitro anticancer investigations against cervical cancer cell lines demonstrated notable cytotoxic activity, with a reduction in cell viability by 20.82%. To gain deeper insight into its biological interactions, molecular docking studies were performed, which provide computational support for the experimentally observed in vitro biological activities. The multifunctional profile of GIVA, integrating selective Ru(III) sensing with potent biological activity, underscores its potential as a versatile platform for both analytical and biomedical applications.