DNA binding and photocleavage in vitro by new dirhodium(II) dppz complexes: correlation to cytotoxicity and photocytotoxicity

Red and NIR light-triggered enhancement of anticancer and antibacterial activities of dinuclear Co(II)-catecholate complexes

Photoactive complexes of bioessential 3d metals, activable within the phototherapeutic window (650-900 nm), have gained widespread interest due to their therapeutic potential. Herein, we report the synthesis, characterization, and light-enhanced anticancer and antibacterial properties of four new dinuclear Co(II) complexes: [Co(phen)(cat)]2 (Co-1), [Co(dppz)(cat)]2 (Co-2), [Co(phen)(esc)]2 (Co-3), and [Co(dppz)(esc)]2 (Co-4). In these complexes, phen (1,10-phenanthroline) and dppz (dipyrido[3,2-a:2',3'-c]phenazine) act as neutral N,N-donor ligands, while cat2- and esc2- serve as O,O-donor catecholate ligands derived from catechol (1,2-dihydroxybenzene) and esculetin (6,7-dihydroxy coumarin). Their high-spin paramagnetic nature and dimeric identity in solution were confirmed by magnetic susceptibility, UV-visible, emission, and mass spectral data. Co-1-Co-4 exhibited an absorption band within the 600-850 nm range, originating from a charge transfer transition. The electrically neutral complexes demonstrated sufficient solution stability both in the dark and under irradiated conditions. The dppz complexes Co-2 and Co-4 exhibited notable toxicity towards A549 lung carcinoma cells, with potency increasing significantly under brief (5 min) exposure to 660 nm (red) and 808 nm (NIR) laser light (IC50 ∼ 8.9 to 14.9 μM). Notably, their toxicity towards normal NIH-3T3 fibroblast cells was minimal. Cellular assays highlighted that the induced cell death followed an apoptotic pathway, primarily due to mitochondrial damage. Co-2 and Co-4 also demonstrated significant antibacterial potency against Gram-(+) S. aureus and Gram-(-) P. aeruginosa, with effectiveness significantly enhanced upon 808 nm laser irradiation (MIC ∼ 15-142 μM). The increase in the anticancer and antibacterial efficacies was attributed to the generation of cytotoxic singlet oxygen (1O2) species upon red/NIR light exposure. Notably, 808 nm NIR irradiation produced more pronounced effects compared to 660 nm. This study is the first to report on cobalt complexes exhibiting red and NIR light-triggered enhancement of antibacterial and anticancer activities, illuminating the path for the development of long-wavelength absorbing cobalt complexes with enhanced therapeutic efficacy.

Photoactivated Anticancer Activity of Cobalt(III) Complexes with Naturally Occurring Flavonoids Chrysin and Silibinin

Photoactive metal complexes of bioessential transition metal ions with natural chelators are gaining interest as photocytotoxic agents for cancer photodynamic therapy (PDT). We report six new cobalt(III) complexes with a mixed-ligand formulation [Co(B)2(L)](ClO4)2 (Co1-Co6), where B represents a N,N-donor α-diimine ligand, namely, phenanthroline (phen; Co1, Co2), dipyrido[3,2-d:2',3'-f]quinoxaline (dpq; Co3, Co4), and dipyrido[3,2-a:2',3'-c]phenazine (dppz; Co5, Co6), and L is the monoanionic form of the naturally occurring flavonoids chrysin (chry; Co1, Co3, Co5) and silibinin (sili; Co2, Co4, Co6). Complexes displayed a d-d absorption band within 500-700 nm and exhibited excellent dark and photostability in solution. Cytotoxicity studies indicated significant activity of Co5 and Co6 against cervical (HeLa) and lung (A549) cancer cells under visible light (400-700 nm) irradiation giving low micromolar IC50 values (2.3-3.4 μM, phototoxicity index~15-30). The complexes demonstrated notably low toxicity against normal HPL1D lung epithelial cells. Flow cytometry assay revealed an apoptotic mode of cell damage triggered by the complexes when irradiated. ROS generation assay indicated the involvement of singlet oxygen species in the cell death mechanism when irradiated with light. Overall, complexes Co5 and Co6 with coordinated dipyridophenazine and flavonoid ligands are potential candidates for cancer PDT applications.

Ru(II) Complexes with Absorption in the Photodynamic Therapy Window: 1O2 Sensitization, DNA Binding, and Plasmid DNA Photocleavage

Two Ru(II) complexes, [Ru(pydppn)(bim)(py)]2+ [2; pydppn = 3-(pyrid-2'-yl)-4,5,9,16-tetraaza-dibenzo[a,c]naphthacene; bim = 2,2'-bisimidazole; py = pyridine] and [Ru(pydppn)(Me4bim)(py)]2+ [3; Me4bim = 2,2'-bis(4,5-dimethylimidazole)], were synthesized and characterized, and their photophysical properties, DNA binding, and photocleavage were evaluated and compared to [Ru(pydppn)(bpy)(py)]2+ (1; bpy = 2,2'-bipyridine). Complexes 2 and 3 exhibit broad 1MLCT (metal-to-ligand charge transfer) transitions with maxima at ∼470 nm and shoulders at ∼525 and ∼600 nm that extend to ∼800 nm. These bands are red-shifted relative to those of 1, attributed to the π-donating ability of the bim and Me4bim ligands. A strong signal at 550 nm is observed in the transient absorption spectra of 1-3, previously assigned as arising from a pydppn-centered 3ππ* state, with lifetimes of ∼19 μs for 1 and 2 and ∼270 ns for 3. A number of methods were used to characterize the mode of binding of 1-3 to DNA, including absorption titrations, thermal denaturation, relative viscosity changes, and circular dichroism, all of which point to the intercalation of the pydpppn ligand between the nucleobases. The photocleavage of plasmid pUC19 DNA was observed upon the irradiation of 1-3 with visible and red light, attributed to the sensitized generation of 1O2 by the complexes. These findings indicate that the bim ligand, together with pydppn, serves to shift the absorption of Ru(II) complexes to the photodynamic therapy window, 600-900 nm, and also extend the excited state lifetimes for the efficient production of cytotoxic singlet oxygen.

Fifty Shades of Phenanthroline: Synthesis Strategies to Functionalize 1,10-Phenanthroline in All Positions

1,10-Phenanthroline (phen) is one of the most popular ligands ever used in coordination chemistry due to its strong affinity for a wide range of metals with various oxidation states. Its polyaromatic structure provides robustness and rigidity, leading to intriguing features in numerous fields (luminescent coordination scaffolds, catalysis, supramolecular chemistry, sensors, theranostics, etc.). Importantly, phen offers eight distinct positions for functional groups to be attached, showcasing remarkable versatility for such a simple ligand. As a result, phen has become a landmark molecule for coordination chemists, serving as a must-use ligand and a versatile platform for designing polyfunctional arrays. The extensive use of substituted phenanthroline ligands with different metal ions has resulted in a diverse array of complexes tailored for numerous applications. For instance, these complexes have been utilized as sensitizers in dye-sensitized solar cells, as luminescent probes modified with antibodies for biomaterials, and in the creation of elegant supramolecular architectures like rotaxanes and catenanes, exemplified by Sauvage's Nobel Prize-winning work in 2016. In summary, phen has found applications in almost every facet of chemistry. An intriguing aspect of phen is the specific reactivity of each pair of carbon atoms ([2,9], [3,8], [4,7], and [5,6]), enabling the functionalization of each pair with different groups and leading to polyfunctional arrays. Furthermore, it is possible to differentiate each position in these pairs, resulting in non-symmetrical systems with tremendous versatility. In this Review, the authors aim to compile and categorize existing synthetic strategies for the stepwise polyfunctionalization of phen in various positions. This comprehensive toolbox will aid coordination chemists in designing virtually any polyfunctional ligand. The survey will encompass seminal work from the 1950s to the present day. The scope of the Review will be limited to 1,10-phenanthroline, excluding ligands with more intracyclic heteroatoms or fused aromatic cycles. Overall, the primary goal of this Review is to highlight both old and recent synthetic strategies that find applicability in the mentioned applications. By doing so, the authors hope to establish a first reference for phenanthroline synthesis, covering all possible positions on the backbone, and hope to inspire all concerned chemists to devise new strategies that have not yet been explored.

Primary processes in photophysics and photochemistry of a potential light-activated anti-cancer dirhodium complex

Photophysics and photochemistry of a potential light-activated cytotoxic dirhodium complex [Rh2(µ-O2CCH3)2(bpy)(dppz)](O2CCH3)2, where bpy = 2,2'-bipyridine, dppz = dipyrido[3,2-a:2',3'-c]phenazine (Complex 1 or Rh2) in aqueous solutions was studied by means of stationary photolysis and time-resolved methods in time range from hundreds of femtoseconds to microseconds. According to the literature, Complex 1 demonstrates both oxygen-dependent (due to singlet oxygen formation) and oxygen-independent cytotoxicity. Photoexchange of an acetate ligand to a water molecule was the only observed photochemical reaction, which rate was increased by oxygen removal from solutions. Photoexcitation of Complex 1 results in the formation of the lowest triplet electronic excited state, which lifetime is less than 10 ns. This time is too short for diffusion-controlled quenching of the triplet state by dissolved oxygen resulting in 1O2 formation. We proposed that singlet oxygen is produced by photoexcitation of weakly bound van der Waals complexes [Rh2…O2], which are formed in solutions. If this is true, no oxygen-independent light-induced cytotoxicity of Complex 1 exists. Residual cytotoxicity deaerated solutions are caused by the remaining [Rh2…O2] complexes.

Docking Studies, Cytotoxicity Evaluation and Interactions of Binuclear Copper(II) Complexes with S-Isoalkyl Derivatives of Thiosalicylic Acid with Some Relevant Biomolecules

The numerous side effects of platinum based chemotherapy has led to the design of new therapeutics with platinum replaced by another transition metal. Here, we investigated the interactions of previously reported copper(II) complexes containing S-isoalkyl derivatives, the salicylic acid with guanosine-5'-monophosphate and calf thymus DNA (CT-DNA) and their antitumor effects, in a colon carcinoma model. All three copper(II) complexes exhibited an affinity for binding to CT-DNA, but there was no indication of intercalation or the displacement of ethidium bromide. Molecular docking studies revealed a significant affinity of the complexes for binding to the minor groove of B-form DNA, which coincided with DNA elongation, and a higher affinity for binding to Z-form DNA, supporting the hypothesis that the complex binding to CT-DNA induces a local transition from B-form to Z-form DNA. These complexes show a moderate, but selective cytotoxic effect toward colon cancer cells in vitro. Binuclear complex of copper(II) with S-isoamyl derivative of thiosalicylic acid showed the highest cytotoxic effect, arrested tumor cells in the G2/M phase of the cell cycle, and significantly reduced the expression of inflammatory molecules pro-IL-1β, TNF-α, ICAM-1, and VCAM-1 in the tissue of primary heterotopic murine colon cancer, which was accompanied by a significantly reduced tumor growth and metastases in the lung and liver.

Interaction of ruthenium(Ⅱ) polypyridyl complexes [Ru(phen)2(L)]2+ (L = PIP, p-HPIP and m-HPIP) with RNA poly(A)•poly(U): each complex unexpectedly exhibiting a destabilizing effect on RNA

To further explore the binding properties of Ru(Ⅱ) polypyridine complexes with RNA, three Ru(Ⅱ) complexes [Ru(phen)₂(PIP)]²⁺ (Ru1), [Ru(phen)₂(p-HPIP)]²⁺ (Ru2), and [Ru(phen)₂(m- HPIP)]²⁺ (Ru3) have been synthesized and characterized in this work. The binding properties of three Ru(Ⅱ) complexes with RNA duplex poly(A)•poly(U) have been investigated by spectral and viscosity experiments. These studies all support that these three Ru(Ⅱ) complexes bind to poly RNA duplex poly(A)•poly(U) by intercalation, and Ru1 without substituents has a stronger binding affinity for poly(A)•poly(U). Interestingly, the thermal melting experiments show that these three Ru(Ⅱ) complexes all destabilize RNA duplex poly(A)•poly(U), and the destabilizing effect can be explained by the conformational changes of duplex structure induced by intercalating agents. To the best of our knowledge, this work report for the first time a small molecule capable of destabilizing an RNA duplex, which reflects that the substitution effect of intercalated ligands has an important influence on the affinity of Ru(Ⅱ) complexes to RNA duplex, and that not all Ru(Ⅱ) complexes show thermal stability effects on an RNA duplex.

(8-Hydroxyquinoline) Gallium(III) Complex with High Antineoplastic Efficacy for Treating Colon Cancer via Multiple Mechanisms

A series of (8-hydroxyquinoline) gallium(III) complexes (CP-1-4) was synthesized and characterized by single X-ray crystallography and density functional theory (DFT) calculation. The cytotoxicity of the four gallium complexes toward a human nonsmall cell lung cancer cell line (A549), human colon cancer cell line (HCT116), and human normal hepatocyte cell line (LO2) was evaluated using MTT assays. CP-4 exhibited excellent cytotoxicity against HCT116 cancer cells (IC₅₀ = 1.2 ± 0.3 μM) and lower toxicity than cisplatin and oxaliplatin. We also evaluated the anticancer mechanism studies in cell uptake, reactive oxygen species analysis, cell cycle, wound-healing, and Western blotting assays. The results showed that CP-4 affected the expression of DNA-related proteins, which led to the apoptosis of cancer cells. Moreover, molecular docking tests of CP-4 were performed to predict other binding sites and to confirm its higher binding force to disulfide isomerase (PDI) proteins. The emissive properties of CP-4 suggest that this complex can be used for colon cancer diagnosis and treatment, as well as in vivo imaging. These results also provide a foundation for the development of gallium complexes as potent anticancer agents.

RNA-binding of Ru(II) complexes [Ru(phen)2(7-OCH3-dppz)]2+ and [Ru(phen)2(7-NO2-dppz)]2+: The former serves as a molecular "light switch" for poly(A)•poly(U)

To further determine the factors that affect the binding properties of ruthenium(II) polypyridine complexes with RNA duplex and to find excellent RNA-binding agents, the binding properties of ruthenium(II) complexes [Ru(phen)₂(7-OCH₃-dppz)]²⁺ (Ru1, phen = 1,10-phenan- throline, 7-OCH₃-dppz = 7-methoxy-dipyrido-[3,2-a,2',3'-c]-phenazine) and [Ru(phen)₂(7-NO₂- dppz)]²⁺ (Ru2, 7-NO₂-dppz = 7-nitro-dipyrido-[3,2-a,2',3'-c]-phenazine) with RNA poly(A)•poly(U) duplex have been investigated by spectroscopic methods and viscosity measurements in this work. The results show that complexes Ru1 and Ru2 bind to poly(A)•poly(U) through intercalation and the binding affinity between Ru2 and poly(A)•poly(U) is greater than that of Ru1. Thermal denaturation experiments suggest that both ruthenium(II) complexes exhibit a significant stabilizing effect on poly(A)•poly(U) duplex. Moreover, fluorescence emission spectra exhibit that, deviating from Ru2, Ru1 exhibits a "light switch" effect for poly(A)•poly(U). This effect can be observed by the naked eye under UV light and adjusted by pH, meaning that Ru1 may act as a reversible pH controlled molecular "light switch". The results obtained in this work will contribute to our understanding of the significant influence of the intercalative ligand substituent effect in the binding process of ruthenium(II) complexes with RNA duplex.

Evaluation of 1 H-NMR Spectroscopy-Based Quantification Methods of the Supramolecular Aggregation of a Molecular Photosensitizer

The supramolecular dimerization of a ruthenium polypyridyl precursor of a well-developed family of hydrogen evolving photocatalysts via π-π-interactions of the polyheteroaromatic bridging ligand was quantified with concentration dependent ¹ H-NMR-spectroscopy. The data sets were analyzed with different calculation and fit methods. A comparison between the results of direct calculation, linear and nonlinear approaches showed that the application of a global nonlinear fit procedure yields the best results. The presented methods are also applicable for dimerization processes in solution of other molecular moieties.

The strong in vitro and vivo cytotoxicity of three new cobalt(II) complexes with 8-methoxyquinoline

Three new cobalt(II) complexes, [Co(MQL)₂Cl₂] (CoCl), [Co(MQL)₂Br₂] (CoBr), and [Co(MQL)₂I₂] (CoI), bearing 8-methoxyquinoline (MQL) have been designed for the first time. MTT assays showed that CoCl, CoBr, and CoI exhibit much better antiproliferative activities than cisplatin toward cisplatin-resistant SK-OV-3/DDP and SK-OV-3 ovarian cancer cells, with IC₅₀ values of as low as 0.32-5.49 μM. Further, CoCl and CoI can regulate autophagy-related proteins in SK-OV-3/DDP cells and, therefore, they can induce primarily autophagy-mediated cell apoptosis in the following order: CoCl > CoI. The different antiproliferative activities of the MQL complexes CoCl, CoBr, and CoI could be correlated with the lengths of their Co-X bonds, which adopted the following order: CoI > CoBr > CoCl. The 8-HOMQ complexes CoCl (ca. 60.1%) and CoI (ca. 48.8%) also showed potent in vivo anticancer effects after 15 days of treatment. In summary, the MQL ligand highly enhances the antiproliferative activities of cobalt(II) complexes in comparison to other previously reported 8-hydroxyquinoline metal complexes.

Metalloimmunotherapy with Rhodium and Ruthenium Complexes: Targeting Tumor-Associated Macrophages

Tumor associated macrophages (TAMs) suppress the cancer immune response and are a key target for immunotherapy. The effects of ruthenium and rhodium complexes on TAMs have not been well characterized. To address this gap in the field, a panel of 22 dirhodium and ruthenium complexes were screened against three subtypes of macrophages, triple-negative breast cancer and normal breast tissue cells. Experiments were carried out in 2D and biomimetic 3D co-culture experiments with and without irradiation with blue light. Leads were identified with cell-type-specific toxicity toward macrophage subtypes, cancer cells, or both. Experiments with 3D spheroids revealed complexes that sensitized the tumor models to the chemotherapeutic doxorubicin. Cell surface exposure of calreticulin, a known facilitator of immunogenic cell death (ICD), was increased upon treatment, along with a concomitant reduction in the M2-subtype classifier arginase. Our findings lay a strong foundation for the future development of ruthenium- and rhodium-based chemotherapies targeting TAMs.

Evaluation of the anticancer activities with various ligand substituents in Co(II/III)-picolyl phenolate derivatives: synthesis, characterization, DFT, DNA cleavage, and molecular docking studies

The reactions between 2-(pyridine-2-ylmethoxy)-benzaldehyde (L) and various primary amines furnish tridentate (L1 to L3) and tetradentate (L4) chelating ligands. The choice of different primary amines in the condensation reaction incorporates the chiral carbon atom in L2 and L3. A series of mononuclear cobalt(II) complexes, [CoII(L1)(Cl)2] (1), [CoII(L2)(Cl)2]·CH3CN (2), [CoII(L3)(Cl)2] (3), and [CoIII(L4)(N3)2] (4) are synthesized in the pure crystalline state from the resulting solution of cobalt(II) chloride and/or azide and respective ligand. The new ligands and cobalt complexes are characterized using spectral (UV-Vis, 1H-NMR, IR, and HRMS), cyclovoltammetric, and DFT studies. The structure of L1, L2, and all four cobalt complexes are determined by single X-ray crystallography. Cytotoxic activity of the compounds is evaluated using three different tissues of origin e.g., U-937 (histiocytic lymphoma), HEK293T (embryonic kidney), and A549 (lung carcinoma). The cobalt complexes are more active than the corresponding ligands against U-937 and HEK293T. The MTT assay demonstrates that the cobalt compounds are more effective anticancer agents against U-937 cancer cells than HEK293T and A549. The toxicity order, 1 (7.2 ± 0.3 μM) > 3 (11.4 ± 0.6 μM) > 2 (12 ± 0.1 μM) > 4 (29 ± 1 μM) is observed against U-937 cancer cells. All the compounds induce cell death through an apoptosis mechanism and all are ineffective against PBMCs. The mechanism of activity against U937 cancer cells involves caspase-3 activation and two different mitogen-activated protein kinases attesting the programmed cell death. Among the compounds, complexes 1, 2, and 3 show DNA cleavage activity both in oxidizing (H2O2) and reducing (GSH) environments. The mechanistic study reveals that singlet oxygen (1O2) is the major species involved in DNA cleavage. The absolute chemical hardness values of the ligands and 4 are relatively higher than 1, 2, and 3, which tacitly support the DNA cleavage experiment. The docking result indicates that the compounds under investigation strongly interact with DNA base pairs through a variety of interactions which attests successfully to the experimental results. A structure-activity relationship has been drawn to correlate the variation of antitumor activity with ligand conformations.

Digging into protein metalation differences triggered by fluorine containing-dirhodium tetracarboxylate analogues

Catalytic and biological properties of dirhodium tetracarboxylates ([Rh2(μ-O2CR)4L2], L=axial ligand, R=CH3-, CH3CH2-, etc) largely depend on the nature of the bridging carboxylate equatorial μ-O2CR ligands, which can be easily exchanged...

Antitumor Immune Response Triggered by Metal-Based Photosensitizers for Photodynamic Therapy: Where Are We?

Metal complexes based on transition metals have rich photochemical and photophysical properties that are derived from a variety of excited state electronic configurations triggered by visible and near-infrared light. These properties can be exploited to produce powerful energy and electron transfer processes that can lead to oxygen-(in)dependent photobiological activity. These principles are the basis of photodynamic therapy (PDT), which is a clinically approved treatment that offers a promising, effective, and noninvasive complementary treatment or even an alternative to treat several types of cancers. PDT is based on a reaction involving a photosensitizer (PS), light, and oxygen, which ultimately generates cytotoxic reactive oxygen species (ROS). However, skin photosensitivity, due to the accumulation of PSs in skin cells, has hampered, among other elements, its clinical development and application. Therefore, these is an increasing interest in the use of (metal-based) PSs that are more specific to tumor cells. This may increase efficacy and corollary decrease side-effects. To this end, metal-containing nanoparticles with photosensitizing properties have recently been developed. In addition, several studies have reported that the use of immunogenic/immunomodulatory metal-based nanoparticles increases the antitumor efficacy of immune-checkpoint inhibitor-based immunotherapy mediated by anti-PD-(L)1 or CTLA-4 antibodies. In this review, we discuss the main metal complexes used as PDT PSs. Lastly, we review the preclinical studies associated with metal-based PDT PSs and immunotherapies. This therapeutic association could stimulate PDT.

A new palladium-based antiproliferative agent: synthesis, characterization, computational calculations, cytotoxicity, and DNA binding properties

A new palladium(II) complex entitled [Pd(phendione)(8Q)]NO₃, (PdPQ), where phendione is N,N-donor heterocyclic 1,10-phenanthroline-5,6-dion and 8Q is 8-hydroxyquinolinate, has been synthesized and then characterized by molar conductivity, CHN analysis and spectral data (UV-Vis, FT-IR, NMR). DFT/ TDDFT procedures were also performed to determine the electronic structure and the nature of the electronic transitions of PdPQ. Moreover, the affinity and binding properties of DNA to the desired complex have been studied in details using electronic absorption, fluorescence, circular dichroism spectroscopies, and viscosity measurement in combination with molecular docking technique. The obtained results exhibit relatively high DNA binding values with a static quenching mechanism, which suggest that an intercalative mode plays a peridominate role in interaction process concluded by experimental/theoretical measurements. As a result of drug exposure, in vitro cytotoxicity assay demonstrated the antiproliferative activity of the PdPQ against leukemia cancer cell line, K562.

Mixed-Ligand Cobalt(III) Complexes of a Naturally Occurring Coumarin and Phenanthroline Bases as Mitochondria-Targeted Dual-Purpose Photochemotherapeutics

The bioessential nature of cobalt and the rich photochemistry of its coordination complexes can be exploited to develop potential next-generation photochemotherapeutics. A series of six novel mixed-ligand cobalt(III) complexes of the formulation [Co(B)₂(L)]ClO₄ (1-6), where B is an N,N-donor phenanthroline base, namely, 1,10-phenanthroline (phen in 1 and 4), dipyrido[3,2-d:2',3'-f]quinoxaline (dpq in 2 and 5), and dipyrido[3,2-a:2',3'-c]phenazine (dppz in 3 and 6), and L is an O,O-donor dianionic ligand derived from catechol (1,2-dihydroxybenzene, cat^2-, in 1-3) or esculetin (6,7-dihydoxycoumarin, esc^2-, in 4-6), have been prepared and characterized, and their light-triggered cytotoxicity has been studied in cancer cells. The single-crystal X-ray diffraction structures of complexes 1 (as PF₆^- salt, 1a) and 2 show distorted octahedral geometries around the cobalt(III) center formed by the set of N₄O₂ donor atoms. The low-spin and 1:1 electrolytic complexes 1-6 display a d-d transition around 700 nm. Complexes 4-6 with a coordinated esc^2- ligand additionally display a π → π* intraligand transition centered at 403 nm. Complexes 4-6 possessing a naturally occurring and photoactive esc^2- ligand show high visible-light-triggered cytotoxicity against HeLa and MCF-7 cancer cells, yielding remarkably low micromolar IC₅₀ values while being much less toxic under dark conditions. Control complexes 1-3 possessing the photoinactive cat^2- ligand show significantly less cytotoxicity either in the presence of light or in the dark. The complex-induced cell death is apoptotic in nature caused by the formation of reactive oxygen species via a type 1 photoredox pathway. Fluorescence microscopy of HeLa cells treated with complex 6 reveals mitochondrial localization of the complex. A significant decrease in the dark toxicity of free esculetin and dppz base is observed upon coordination to cobalt(III). Complexes bind to calf-thymus DNA with significant affinity, but 6 binds with the greatest affinity. Complex 6 efficiently photocleaves supercoiled DNA to its nicked circular form when irradiated with visible light via a photoredox type 1 pathway involving hydroxyl radicals (HO^•). Thus, complex 6 showing remarkable visible-light-triggered cytotoxicity but negligible toxicity in the dark is a good candidate for cancer photochemotherapy applications.

Copper(ii) complexes with tridentate halogen-substituted Schiff base ligands: synthesis, crystal structures and investigating the effect of halogenation, leaving groups and ligand flexibility on antiproliferative activities

To investigate the effect of different halogen substituents and leaving groups and the flexibility of ligands on the anticancer activity of copper complexes, sixteen copper(ii) complexes with eight different tridentate Schiff-base ligands containing pyridine and 3,5-halogen-substituted phenol moieties were synthesized and characterized by spectroscopic methods. Four of these complexes were also characterized by X-ray crystallography. The cytotoxicity of the complexes was determined in three different tumor cell lines (i.e. the A2780 ovarian, HCT116 colorectal and MCF7 breast cancer cell line) and in a normal primary fibroblast cell line. Complexes were demonstrated to induce a higher loss of cell viability in the ovarian carcinoma cell line (A2780) with respect to the other two tumor cell lines, and therefore the biological mechanisms underlying this loss of viability were further investigated. Complexes with ligand L₁ (containing a 2-pycolylamine-type motif) were more cytotoxic than complexes with L₂ (containing a 2-(2-pyridyl)ethylamine-type motif). The loss of cell viability in A2780 tumor cells was observed in the order Cu(Cl₂-L₁)NO₃ > Cu(Cl₂-L₁)Cl > Cu(Br₂-L₁)Cl > Cu(BrCl-L₁)Cl. All complexes were able to induce reactive oxygen species (ROS) that could be related to the loss of cell viability. Complexes Cu(BrCl-L₁)Cl and Cu(Cl₂-L₁)NO₃ were able to promote A2780 cell apoptosis and autophagy and for complex Cu(BrCl-L₁)Cl the increase in apoptosis was due to the intrinsic pathway. Cu(Cl₂-L₁)Cl and Cu(Br₂-L₁)Cl complexes lead to cellular detachment allowing to correlate with the results of loss of cell viability. Despite the ability of the Cu(BrCl-L₁)Cl complex to induce programmed cell death in A2780 cells, its therapeutic window turned out to be low making the Cu(Cl₂-L₁)NO₃ complex the most promising candidate for additional biological applications.

Biophysical insights into the interaction of two enantiomers of Ru(II) complex [Ru(bpy)2(7-CH3-dppz)]2+ with the RNA poly(U-A⁎U) triplex

To determine the factors affecting the stabilization of RNA triple-stranded structure by chiral Ru(II) polypyridyl complexes, a new pair of enantiomers, ∆-[Ru(bpy)₂(7-CH₃-dppz)]²⁺ (∆-1; bpy = 2,2'-bipyridine, 7-CH₃-dppz = 7-methyl-dipyrido[3,2-a,2',3'-c]phenazine) and Λ-[Ru(bpy)₂(7-CH₃-dppz)]²⁺ (Λ-1), have been synthesized and characterized in this work. Binding properties of the two enantiomers with the RNA poly(U-A⁎U) triplex (where "-" denotes the Watson - Crick base pairing and "⁎" denotes the Hoogsteen base pairing) have been studied by spectroscopy and hydrodynamics methods. Under the conditions used in this study, changes in absorption spectra of the two enantiomers are not very different from each other when bound to the triplex, although the binding affinity of ∆-1 is higher than that of Λ-1. Fluorescence titrations and viscosity experiments give convincing evidence for a true intercalative binding of enantiomers with the triplex. However, melting experiments indicated that the two enantiomers selectively stabilized the triplex. The enantiomer ∆-1 stabilize the template duplex and third-strand of the triplex, while it's more effective for stabilization of the template duplex. In stark contrast to ∆-1, Λ-1 stabilizes the triplex without any effect on the third-strand stabilization, suggesting this one extremely prefers to stabilize the template duplex rather than third-strand. Besides, the triplex stabilization effect of ∆-1 is more marked in comparison with that of Λ-1. The obtained results suggest that substituent effects and chiralities of Ru(II) polypyridyl complexes play important roles in the triplex stabilization. Complexes Λ/Δ-[Ru(bpy)₂(7-CH₃-dppz)]²⁺ (Λ/Δ-1; bpy = 2,2'-bipyridine, 7-CH₃-dppz = 7-methyl-dipyrido[3,2-a,2',3'-c]phenazine) were prepared as stabilizers for poly(U-A ∗ U) triplex. Results suggest the triplex stabilization depends the chiral structures of Λ/Δ-1, indicating that [Ru(bpy)₂(7-CH₃-dppz)]²⁺ is a non-specific intercalator for poly(U-A ∗ U) investigated in this work.

Conjugated Photosensitizers for Imaging and PDT in Cancer Research

Early cancer detection and perfect understanding of the disease are imperative toward efficient treatments. It is straightforward that, for choosing a specific cancer treatment methodology, diagnostic agents undertake a critical role. Imaging is an extremely intriguing tool since it assumes a follow up to treatments to survey the accomplishment of the treatment and to recognize any conceivable repeating injuries. It also permits analysis of the disease, as well as to pursue treatment and monitor the possible changes that happen on the tumor. Likewise, it allows screening the adequacy of treatment and visualizing the state of the tumor. Additionally, when the treatment is finished, observing the patient is imperative to evaluate the treatment methodology and adjust the treatment if necessary. The goal of this review is to present an overview of conjugated photosensitizers for imaging and therapy.

Dual-Action Ru(II) Complexes with Bulky π-Expansive Ligands: Phototoxicity without DNA Intercalation

We report the synthesis and photochemical and biological characterization of Ru(II) complexes containing π-expansive ligands derived from dimethylbenzo[i]dipyrido[3,2-a:2',3'-c]phenazine (Me₂dppn) adorned with flanking aryl substituents. Late-stage Suzuki couplings produced Me₂dppn ligands substituted at the 10 and 15 positions with phenyl (5), 2,4-dimethylphenyl (6), and 2,4-dimethoxyphenyl (7) groups. Complexes of the general formula [Ru(tpy)(L)(py)](PF₆)₂ (8-10), where L = 4-7, were characterized and shown to have dual photochemotherapeutic (PCT) and photodynamic therapy (PDT) behavior. Quantum yields for photodissociation of monodentate pyridines from 8-10 were about 3 times higher than that of parent complex [Ru(tpy)(Me₂dppn)(py)](PF₆)₂ (1), whereas quantum yields for singlet oxygen (¹O₂) production were ∼10% lower than that of 1. Transient absorption spectroscopy indicates that 8-10 possess long excited state lifetimes (τ = 46-50 μs), consistent with efficient ¹O₂ production through population and subsequent decay of ligand-centered ³ππ* excited states. Complexes 8-10 displayed greater lipophilicity relative to 1 and association to DNA but do not intercalate between the duplex base pairs. Complexes 1 and 8-10 showed photoactivated toxicity in breast and prostate cancer cell lines with phototherapeutic indexes, PIs, as high as >56, where the majority of cell death was achieved 4 h after treatment with Ru(II) complexes and light. Flow cytometric data and rescue experiments were consistent with necrotic cell death mediated by the production of reactive oxygen species, especially ¹O₂. Collectively, this study confirms that DNA intercalation by Ru(II) complexes with π-expansive ligands is not required to achieve photoactivated cell death.

Synthetic Strategies for Trapping the Elusive trans-Dirhodium(II,II) Formamidinate Isomer: Effects of Cis versus Trans Geometry on the Photophysical Properties

The cis- and trans-dirhodium(II,II) complexes cis-[Rh₂(μ-DTolF)₂(μ-np)(MeCN)₄][BF₄]₂ (1; DTolF = N,N'-di-p-tolylformamidinate and np = 1,8-naphthyridine), cis- and trans-[Rh₂(μ-DTolF)₂(μ-qxnp)(MeCN)₃][BF₄]₂ [2 and 3, respectively, where qxnp = 2-(1,8-naphthyridin-2-yl)quinoxaline], and trans-[Rh₂(μ-DTolF)₂(μ-qxnp)₂][BF₄]₂ (4) were synthesized and characterized. A new synthetic methodology was developed that consists of the sequential addition of π-accepting axially blocking ligands to favor formation of the first example of a bis-substituted formamidinate-bearing trans product. Isolation of the intermediates 2 and 3 provides insight into the mechanistic requirements for obtaining 4 and the cis analogue, cis-[Rh₂(μ-DTolF)₂(μ-qxnp)₂][BF₄]₂ (5). Density functional theory calculations provide support for the synthetic mechanism and proposed intermediates. The metal/ligand-to-ligand charge-transfer (ML-LCT) absorption maximum of the trans complex 4 at 832 nm is red-shifted by 1173 cm^-1 and exhibits shorter lifetimes of the ¹ML-LCT and ³ML-LCT excited states, 3 ps and 0.40 ns, respectively, compared to those of the cis analogue 5. The shorter excited-state lifetimes of 4 are attributed to the longer Rh-Rh bond of 2.4942(8) Å relative to that in 5, 2.4498(2) Å. A longer metal-metal bond reflects a decreased overlap of the Rh atoms, which leads to more accessible metal-centered excited states for radiationless deactivation. The ³ML-LCT excited states of 4 and 5 undergo reversible bimolecular charge transfer with the electron donor p-phenylenediamine when irradiated with low-energy light. These results indicate that trans isomers are a source of unexplored tunability for potential p-type semiconductor applications and, given their distinct geometric arrangement, constitute useful building blocks for supramolecular architectures with potentially interesting photophysical properties.

Synthesis, structure and characterization of new dithiocarbazate-based mixed ligand oxidovanadium(iv) complexes: DNA/HSA interaction, cytotoxic activity and DFT studies

The synthesis, structure and characterization of mixed ligand oxidovanadium(iv) complexes [V^IVOL^1–2(L^N–N)] (1–3) are reported. With a view to evaluating their biological activity, their DNA/HSA interaction and cytotoxicity activity have been explored.

Metallothionein: An Aggressive Scavenger-The Metabolism of Rhodium(II) Tetraacetate (Rh2(CH3CO2)4)

Anthropogenic sources of xenobiotic metals with no physiological benefit are increasingly prevalent in the environment. The platinum group metals (Pd, Pt, Rh, Ru, Os, and Ir) are found in marine and plant species near urban sources, and are known to bioaccumulate, introducing these metals into the human food chain. Many of these metals are also being used in innovative cancer therapy, which leads to a direct source of exposure for humans. This paper aims to further our understanding of nontraditional metal metabolism via metallothionein, a protein involved in physiologically important metal homeostasis. The aggressive reaction of metallothionein and dirhodium(II) tetraacetate, a common synthetic catalyst known for its cytotoxicity, was studied in detail in vitro. Optical spectroscopic and equilibrium and time-dependent mass spectral data were used to define binding constants for this robust reaction, and molecular dynamics calculations were conducted to explain the observed results.

Mechanisms of action of Ru(ii) polypyridyl complexes in living cells upon light irradiation

The unique photophysical properties of Ru(ii) polypyridyl complexes make them very attractive candidates as photosensitisers in Photodynamic Therapy (PDT). However, to date, there are not many studies exploring in detail the mechanism(s) of action of such compounds in living systems upon light irradiation. This feature article provides an overview of the most in-depth biological studies on such compounds.

Synthesis and spectroscopic characterization study of new palladium complexes containing bioactive O,O-chelated ligands: evaluation of the DNA/protein BSA interaction, in vitro antitumoural activity and molecular docking

[Pd{(C,N)-C₆H₄CH₂NH(Et) (Qu)] (2) and [Pd{(C,N)-C₆H₄CH₂NH(Et) (Nar)] (3) (Qu = Quercetin, Nar = Naringin) mononuclear palladium (II) complexes have been synthesized and characterized using elemental analysis, IR and electronic spectroscopy. The interaction of the prepared complexes with calf thymus DNA and bovine serum albumin (BSA), monitored by UV-visible and fluorescence titrations, respectively, have been carried out to better understand the mode of their action under biological conditions. Intercalative binding mode between the complexes and DNA is suggested by the binding constant (K_b) values of 2.5 × 10⁶ and 3.2 × 10⁶ for complexes 2 and 3, respectively. In particular, the in vitro cytotoxicity of the complexes on two cancer cells lines (bladder carcinoma TCC and breast cancer MCF7) showed that the compounds had broad spectrum, anti-cancer activity with low IC₅₀ values and the order of in vitro anticancer activities is consistent with the DNA-binding affinities. In the meantime, the quenching of tryptophan emission with the addition of complexes using BSA as a model protein indicated the protein binding ability. The quenching mechanisms of BSA by the complexes were static processes, according to the results obtained. The competitive binding using Warfarin, Digoxin and Ibuprofen site markers, which contain definite biding sites, demonstrated that the complexes bind to site I on BSA. Ultimately, the binding sites of DNA and BSA with the complexes have been determined by molecular modelling studies.

In vitro interaction of cefotaxime with calf thymus DNA: Insights from spectroscopic, calorimetric and molecular modelling studies

Cefotaxime is third generation antibiotic with known therapeutic efficacy against bacterial infections including cerebral abscesses and bacterial meningitis. The β-lactam group of drugs are considered safest antibiotics. Many antibiotics directly interact with DNA and alter their expression profile. Thus, it is necessary to understand the binding mode and its relevance to drug activity and toxicity. There is considerably a remarkable focus on deciphering the binding mechanism of these therapeutic agents as DNA is one of the major target for wide range of drugs. Cefotaxime has been extensively studied for its pharmacological properties while its binding mode to DNA has not been explicated so far. In this study, we have unveiled the binding mechanism of cefotaxime to DNA by using various biophysical, thermodynamic and in silico techniques. UV-vis spectroscopy confirmed the formation cefotaxime-DNA complex along with a brief idea about the extent of interaction. Fluorescence spectroscopy yielded the values of various binding constants and explained mode of fluorescence quenching to be static. CD spectroscopy, thermal denaturation, KI quenching and viscosity measurement explained that cefotaxime is groove binder. Measuring the effect of ions on cefotaxime-DNA complex ensured that it does not bind to DNA electrostatically. Dye displacement experiments finally confirmed that cefotaxime binds to the minor groove of DNA. ITC gave the thermodynamic profile of this binding in which negative value of Gibb's free energy change revealed that the process is spontaneous. Molecular modelling finally strengthened our experimental results that cefotaxime was located in curved contour of minor groove of DNA. The findings support on safety of drug and may have a little interference on normal biological functions.

Synthesis, structure and cytotoxicity of a series of Dioxidomolybdenum(VI) complexes featuring Salan ligands

Seven hexacoordinated cis-dioxidomolybdenum(VI) complexes [MoO₂L^1-7] (1-7) derived from various tetradentate diamino bis(phenolato) "salan" ligands, N,N'-dimethyl-N,N'-bis-(2-hydroxy-3-X-5-Y-6-Z-benzyl)-1,2-diaminoethane {(X=Br, Y=Me, Z=H (H₂L¹); X=Me, YCl, Z=H (H₂L²); X=ⁱPr, Y=Cl, Z=Me (H₂L³)} and N,N'-bis-(2-hydroxy-3-X-5-Y-6-Z-benzyl)-1,2-diaminopropane {(X=Y=^tBu, Z=H (H₂L⁴); X=Y=Me, Z=H (H₂L⁵); X=ⁱPr, YCl, Z=Me (H₂L⁶); X=Y=Br, Z=H (H₂L⁷)} containing O-N donor atoms, have been isolated and structurally characterized. The formation of cis-dioxidomolybdenum(VI) complexes was confirmed by elemental analysis, IR, UV-vis and NMR spectroscopy, ESI-MS and cyclic voltammetry. X-ray crystallography showed the O₂N₂ donor set to define an octahedral geometry in each case. The complexes (1-7) were tested for their in vitro antiproliferative activity against HT-29 and HeLa cancer cell line. IC₅₀ values of the complexes in HT-29 follow the order 6<7<<1<2<5<<3<4 while the order was 6<7<5<1<<3<4<2 in HeLa cells. Some of the complexes proved to be as active as the clinical referred drugs, and the greater potency of 6 and 7 (IC₅₀ values of 6 are 2.62 and 10.74μM and that of 7 is 11.79 and 30.48μM in HT-29 and HeLa cells, respectively) may be dependent on the substituents in the salan ligand environment coordinated to the metal.

DNA and BSA binding and cytotoxic properties of copper(ii) and iron(iii) complexes with arylhydrazone of ethyl 2-cyanoacetate or formazan ligands

Copper(ii) and iron(iii) complexes with arylhydrazone of ethyl 2-cyanoacetate or formazan ligands show DNA and BSA binding and anticancer abilities.