A new Ni(II)-based coordination complex: crystal structure and anti-biofilm activity against <i>P. gingivalis</i> during periodontal diseases

In the current study, by employment of a multiple N-containing ligand 6,6′-bis(1H-benzo[d]imidazol-2-yl)-2,2′-bipyridine (L) featuring both benzimidazole and bipyridyl groups, a new coordination complex with the chemical formula of [Ni(L)(H2O)(ipa)] (1, H2ipa = Iso-phthalic acid) has been successfully prepared by reaction of Ni(NO3)2·6H2O with the L and the H2ipa ligand in a mixed solvent of H2O and DMF. Then we use the grinding method to prepare the nanoparticles of complex 1 with the average size of 350 nm. Furthermore, the inhibitory effect of nano 1 on P. gingivalis biofilm formation during periodontal diseases was assessed. Firstly, the treatment ability of nano 1 on P. gingivalis biofilm formation during periodontal diseases was evaluated by crystal violet staining assay. Then, the relative expression level of the hagB and hagC genes in P. gingivalis after nano 1 treatment was measured with RT-PCR.