Rapid ultrasound-assisted synthesis, characterization, DFT, molecular docking, and anticancer activity of palladium and zinc complexes with 2,6-dimethoxybenzoic acid: A comprehensive study

•Ultrasonic reaction methodused to synthesis of Zn and Pd complexes.•DMB forms coordination bonds through both oxygen atoms at 1:2 ratio.•Enhanced anticancer activity: Zinc and palladium complexes surpass 5FU.•IC50 of Zn complex against colon and breast cancer was 1.36 and 2.12 µg/mL•IC50 of Pd complex against colon and breast cancer was 32.7 and 1.89 µg/mL.