Cr(III) and Co(II) nano-metal complexes of trimethoprim: Sonochemical synthesis, characterization, and ADMET studies

Nanometal complexes have been discovered to be incredibly valuable in the realm of medicine, as they have shown good therapeutic qualities. This study is aimed at synthesizing novel nano-sized Cr(III) and Co(II) complexes of trimethoprim (TMP), as well as studying their ADMET properties. The nano-metal complexes were synthesized by the sonochemical method. Characterization was performed using UV-visible spectroscopy, FTIR, XRD, SEM, and NMR analyses. Results confirmed successful complexation through changes in colour and melting points. XRD analysis revealed crystallite sizes of 64.87 nm and 7.24 nm for Cr(III) and Co(II) complexes, respectively. FTIR spectroscopy demonstrated coordination between metal ions and TMP through significant shifts in azomethine (C=N) vibrations from 1633 cm-1 to 1587 cm-1 and 1592 cm-1, and amino group vibrations from 3317 cm-1 to 3325 cm-1 and 3220 cm-1 for the respective complexes. NMR spectroscopy further confirmed coordination through methylene and amino groups. SEM revealed irregular surface morphology for Cr(TMP) and spherical structures with porous characteristics for Co(TMP). ADMET studies indicated favorable drug-likeness properties and a reduction in toxicity class by the nano-metal complexes, suggesting potential oral drug candidates. This research contributes to the development of novel nanometal-based antimicrobial agents with potentially reduced toxicity profiles and enhanced therapeutic efficacy. KEY WORDS: Trimethoprim, Cr(III), Co(II), Nano-complexes, In silico studies Bull. Chem. Soc. Ethiop. 2026, 40(1), 159-171 DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/bcse.v40i1.13