SPECTROSCOPIC, MAGNETIC, AND ELECTROCHEMICAL-BEHAVIOR OF THE COPPER(II) COMPLEX OF CARNOSINE

Different physicochemical studies were undertaken with polycrystalline samples of the complex [Cu-2(carnosine)(2)(H2O)(2)].2H(2)O. The infra red spectrum was discussed in comparison with that of free carnosine a nd on the basis of the known structural data. Magnetic susceptibility measurements were performed between 4.2 and 300 K, showing an effectiv e magnetic moment of 1.79 BM. Both the electronic (reflectance) and ES R spectra were compatible with the existence of a d(x2-y2) ground stat e. The axial reversed ESR spectrum could be explained on the basis of a very weak interdimeric coupling mechanism. The electrochemical behav ior, investigated by cyclic voltammetry, shows that the complex posses ses a very high redox stability. The possible SOD-like activity was te sted using the NBT/superoxide reduction assay. The results show a negl igible SOD activity.