Design and synthesis of novel phthalocyanines as potential antioxidant and antitumor agents starting with new synthesized phthalonitrile derivatives.

New phthalonitrile derivatives formed from reactions of 2,3-dichloro-5,6-dicyano-1,4-benzoquinone (DDQ) were considered as the key intermediates for the synthesis of new phthalocyanines. Moreover, new phthalonitrile derivatives 2, 5, 9, 10, 15 and 16 reacted with 1,4-diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane (DBO) or hydroquinone to afford the corresponding new phthalocyanine dyes 3, 6, 11, 12, 17 and 18. In addition, the cyclotetramerization of phthalic anhydride derivative 20 afforded new phthalocyanine dye 22. Spectral and elemental investigations revealed the structures of the newly synthesized phthalocyanines. The antioxidant and cytotoxic properties of the novel compounds were investigated, and it has been established that compounds 17 and 18 have very strong anticancer and antioxidant action against all cell lines.