From Synthesis to Applications: Schiff Bases and Metal Complexes in Electroluminescent Devices, Electrochemical Studies, Nonlinear Optical Materials, and Therapeutic Development
Schiff bases, formed by condensation of primary amines and carbonyl compounds, are versatile ligands featuring the azomethine (>C=N) group. Their synthesis is straightforward, often under mild conditions, yielding compounds with tunable structural and electronic properties, including chelating ability, thermal stability, and redox activity. These properties are enhanced upon coordination with transition metals, forming complexes with diverse geometries and improved biological profiles. This review examines recent advances in Schiff base synthesis and properties, emphasizing their metal complexes' applications in the field of electroluminescence, electrochemical, Nonlinear optics and medicine, including antimicrobial, anticancer, antifungal, antiviral, and antioxidant activities, highlighting their potential as therapeutic agents.