Crystal structure and some properties of a novel potent Cu2Zn2SOD model schiff base copper(II) complex ∗[Cu(bppn)](ClO4)2∗2 · H2O

The compound *Cu(bppn)](ClO₄)₂*₂ · H₂O (where BPPN = N,N′-propylenebis2-benzoylpyridineiminato]) was prepared by reaction of 2-benzoylpyridine and 1,3-propanediamine with copper perchorate in ethanol and characterised by X-ray crystallography. The central Cu atom in two crystallographical non-equivalent Cu(bppn)]²⁺ cations exhibited a slightly distorted tetrahedral geometry with the Cu---N bond distances of 1.967(5)–2.010(5) Å and 1.966(5)–2.000(5) Å, respectively. The electronic absorption ₆₄₆ was 194 M^?1 cm^?1. The EPR parameters g = 2.051 and g = 2.226 were in accordance with the respective values of intact Cu₂Zn₂ superoxide dismutase (Cu₂Zn₂SOD). Its electronic property displayed a single quasiversible one—electron reduction process at ? 0.204 V with ΔE_p = 84 mV, suggesting the title complex possesses high superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity.