Crystal structure of the first SH-containing tetrahedral cobalt(II) complex, [Co(quinoline)2(SH)2]. Superoxide dismutase activity

The preparation, spectroscopic properties and crystal structure of the bis-quinoline–bis-mercaptocobalt(II) complex [Co(quinoline)₂(SH)₂] are reported. The complex is tetrahedral with nitrogen donor atoms from two quinoline ligands and sulphur donor atoms from two mercapto groups. The superoxide dismutase mimetic activity of the complex was investigated using the indirect xanthine–xanthine oxidase–nitroblue tetrazolium method and compared to that of the native enzyme.