Synthesis, Characterization, and Biological Activity of sulfamethoxazole-Based Metal Complexes: Antibacterial and Antifungal Evaluation

https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18155206

Abstract

This study investigates the synthesis, characterization, and biological activity of sulfamethoxazole (SMX)-based metal complexes (SMX_Cu, SMX_Co, SMX_Cd, and SMX_Mn) against various bacterial and fungal pathogens. The complexes were synthesized and characterized using FTIR spectroscopy, which confirmed metal-ligand coordination. The antimicrobial activity of the complexes was evaluated through zone of inhibition (ZOI) assays, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC), and antibiofilm activity tests. The results showed that SMX_Mn and SMX_Cd complexes exhibited the strongest antibacterial and antifungal activities, particularly against Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus oryzae, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Bacillus licheniformis. These complexes also demonstrated significant antibiofilm activity, especially at higher concentrations. The FTIR analysis confirmed the successful coordination of metal ions, which likely enhanced the antimicrobial properties of SMX. The findings suggest that SMX-metal complexes, particularly SMX_Mn and SMX_Cd, have potential as effective antimicrobial and antibiofilm agents and may serve as valuable candidates for the treatment of resistant infections.