This document summarizes a study on the synthesis and characterization of Schiff base complexes of Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II) and Zn(II) using 4-pyridinecarboxaldehyde and 4-aminopyridine. The complexes were characterized using elemental analysis, magnetic susceptibility, IR spectroscopy, XRD and SEM. The complexes showed antimicrobial activity against bacteria and fungi. The metal complexes exhibited higher antimicrobial activity than the Schiff base ligand. Gel electrophoresis studies showed the complexes were able to cleave DNA, indicating their potential as chemical nucleases.