Spectroscopic studies, DFT calculations, and cytotoxic activity of novel silver(I) complexes of hydroxy ortho-substituted-nitro-2H-chromen-2-one ligands and a phenanthroline adduct.

Silver(I) complexes of coumarin-based ligands and one of their phenanthroline (phen) adducts have been prepared and characterized using microanalytical data, molar conductivity, IR, (1)H and (13)C NMR, UV-Vis, and atomic absorption (AAS) spectroscopies. The binding modes of the coumarin-based ligands and the most probable structure of their Ag(I) complexes were predicted by means of molecular modeling and calculations of their IR, NMR, and absorption spectra using density functional theory (DFT). The cytotoxicity of the compounds studied against human-derived hepatic carcinoma cells (Hep-G2) and a renal cancer cell line (A498) showed that the complexes were more cytotoxic than the clinically used chemotherapeutic, mitoxantrone. The compounds showed little interaction with DNA and also did not show nuclease activity but manifested excellent superoxide dismutase activity which may indicate that their mechanism of action is quite different to many metal-based therapeutics.

A novel platinum complex of the histone deacetylase inhibitor belinostat: rational design, development and in vitro cytotoxicity.

The successful design and synthesis of a novel Pt complex of the histone deacteylase inhibitor belinostat are reported. Molecular modelling assisted in the identification of a suitable malonate derivative of belinostat (mal-p-Bel) for complexation to platinum. Reaction of [Pt(NH3)2(H2O)2](NO3)2 with the disodium salt of mal-p-Bel gave cis-[Pt(NH3)2(mal-p-Bel-2H)] (where -2H indicates that mal-p-Bel is doubly deprotonated) in excellent yield. An in vitro cytotoxicity study revealed that cis-[Pt(NH3)2(mal-p-Bel-2H)] possesses (i) considerable cytotoxicity against reported ovarian cancer cell lines, (ii) enhanced cytotoxicity relative to the previously reported Pt histone deacetylase inhibitor conjugate, cis-[Pt(II)(NH3)2(malSAHA-2H)] and (iii) favourable cyto-selective properties as compared to cisplatin and belinostat.

Anti-cancer activity and mutagenic potential of novel copper(II) quinolinone Schiff base complexes in hepatocarcinoma cells.

This study determined the cytotoxic, cyto-selective and mutagenic potential of novel quinolinone Schiff base ligands and their corresponding copper(II) complexes in human-derived hepatic carcinoma cells (Hep-G2) and non-malignant human-derived hepatic cells (Chang). Results indicated that complexation of quinolinone Schiff bases with copper served to significantly enhance cytotoxicity. Here, the complex of (7E)-7-(3-ethoxy-2-hydroxybenzylideamino)-4-methylquinolin-2(1H)-one (TV117-FM) exhibited the lowest IC(50) value (17.9 µM) following 96 h continuous exposure, which was comparable to cisplatin (15.0 µM). However, results revealed that TV117-FM lacked cytoselectivity over non-malignant cells. Additionally, the complex was minimally effluxed from cells via Pglycoprotein (P-gp) and was shown to be non-mutagenic in the Standard Ames test. Furthermore, BrdU incorporation assays showed that it was capable of inhibiting DNA synthesis in a concentrationand time-dependent manner. However, inhibition was not as a consequence of DNA intercalation, as illustrated in electrophoretic mobility shift assays. Interestingly, it was shown that the ligand was capable of inhibiting the action of topoisomerase II, but this was lost following complexation. This indicated that the mechanism of action of the novel copper(II) complex was different from that of the parent ligand and suggests that TV117-FM may have a therapeutic role to play in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma. Studies are currently underway to elucidate the exact in vitro mechanism of action of this novel, metal-based anti-cancer agent.

Novel trans-platinum complexes of the histone deacetylase inhibitor valproic acid; synthesis, in vitro cytotoxicity and mutagenicity.

The first examples of Pt complexes of the well known anti-epilepsy drug and histone deacetylase inhibitor, valproic acid (VPA), are reported. Reaction of the Pt(II) am(m)ine precursors trans-[PtCl(2)(NH(3))(py)] and trans-[PtCl(2)(py)(2)] with silver nitrate and subsequently sodium valproate gave trans-[Pt(VPA(-1H))(2)(NH(3))(py)] and trans-[Pt(VPA(-1H))(2)(py)(2)], respectively. The valproato ligands in both complexes are bound to the Pt(II) centres via the carboxylato functionality and in a monodentate manner. The X-ray crystal structure of trans-[Pt(VPA(-1H))(2)(NH(3))(py)] is described. Replacement of the dichlorido ligands in trans-[PtCl(2)(py)(2)] and trans-[PtCl(2)(NH(3))(py)] by valproato ligands (VPA(-1H)) to yield trans-[Pt(VPA(-1H))(2)(py)(2)] and trans-[Pt(VPA(-1H))(2)(NH(3))(py)] respectively, significantly enhanced cytotoxicity against A2780 (parental) and A2780 cisR (cisplatin resistant) ovarian cancer cells. The mutagenicity of trans-[Pt(VPA(-1H))(2)(NH(3))(py)] and trans-[Pt(VPA(-1H))(2)(py)(2)] was determined using the Ames test and is also reported.

Role of cell cycle events and apoptosis in mediating the anti-cancer activity of a silver(I) complex of 4-hydroxy-3-nitro-coumarin-bis(phenanthroline) in human malignant cancer cells.

The central objective of the current study was to investigate the potential in vitro anti-proliferative effect of 4-hydroxy-3-nitro-coumarin (hncH), and the mixed-ligand silver (I) complex of 4-oxy-3-nitro-coumarin-bis(phenanthroline), [Ag(hnc)(phen)(2)] using four human-derived model cell lines. In addition, selected mechanistic studies were carried out using the most sensitive of the four cell lines. Results obtained show that the complex could decrease the proliferation of all four cell lines including neoplastic renal and hepatic, namely A-498 and HepG(2) cells, respectively, along with two non-neoplastic renal and hepatic cell lines, HK-2 and Chang, respectively. Furthermore, non-neoplastic hepatic cells (Chang) appeared to be less sensitive to the effect of the complex, but this effect was not replicated in the non-neoplastic renal (HK-2) cells. Based on IC(50) values [Ag(hnc)(phen)(2)] was shown to be almost four times more potent than cisplatin, using HepG(2) cells. In addition, the observed anti-proliferative effect was shown to be both dose- and time-dependent. Furthermore, the complex was shown to decrease DNA synthesis, but did not intercalate with it. Moreover, there was no evidence that P-glycoprotein-mediated multi-drug resistance was likely to decrease anti-proliferative activity. Cytological stains, analysis of genomic DNA, and biochemical assays [caspase-3 and -9 and cleaved poly(ADP-ribose)-polymerase protein] showed that cell death appeared to result from apoptosis, with the possibility of secondary necrosis. Additionally, flow cytometric analysis showed that the complex functioned through an alteration in cell cycle progression. Taken together, [Ag(hnc)(phen)(2)] has been shown to be a more potent anti-proliferative agent than cisplatin, capable of altering key biochemical events leading to cell death. Additional mechanistic studies are underway to probe more fully its mechanism of action.

Apoptotic cell death: a possible key event in mediating the in vitro anti-proliferative effect of a novel copper(II) complex, [Cu(4-Mecdoa)(phen)(2)] (phen=phenanthroline, 4-Mecdoa=4-methylcoumarin-6,7-dioxactetate), in human malignant cancer cells.

The central objective of the current study was to investigate the potential in vitro anti-proliferative effect of the parent ligand, 4-methylcoumarin-6,7-dioxyacyeic acid (4-MecdoaH(2)), and its copper (II) complex, bis(phenanthroline4-methylcoumarin-6,7-dioxacetatocopper(II) ([Cu(4-Mecdoa)(phen)(2)]) using four human model cell lines. In addition, selected mechanistic studies were carried out using the most sensitive of the four cell lines. Results obtained show that the complex could alter proliferation of both human neoplastic renal (A-498) and hepatic (HepG2) cells. Furthermore, non-neoplastic hepatic (CHANG) cells appeared to be less sensitive. However, this effect was not duplicated with non-neoplastic renal (HK-2) cells, a profile shared by cisplatin. The observed anti-proliferative effect appeared to be dose-and time-dependent, and could be attributed to the complex, rather than any of the free components i.e. the 1,10-phenanthroline or coumarin ligand, or the simple metal salt. Furthermore, the complex was shown to decrease DNA synthesis, but did not intercalate with it. Based on IC(50) values, [Cu(4-Mecdoa)(phen)(2)] was shown to be almost 12 times more potent than cisplatin. Moreover, there was no evidence that P-glycoprotein-mediated multi-drug resistance was likely to decrease anti-proliferative activity. Cytological stains, analysis of genomic DNA, and biochemical assays [caspase-3 and -9 and cleaved poly(ADP-ribose)-polymerase protein], showed that cell death could switch between apoptosis and necrosis, and this effect appeared to be concentration-dependent. Additionally, flow cytometric analysis showed that the complex functioned through an alteration in cell cycle progression. Taken together, [Cu(4-Mecdoa)(phen)(2)] has been shown to be a more potent anti-proliferative agent than either the ligand or cisplatin, and is capable of altering key biochemical events leading to the execution of apoptotic and/or necrotic cell death, suggesting that it is worthy of further investigation.

Synthesis, characterisation and antimicrobial activity of copper(II) and manganese(II) complexes of coumarin-6,7-dioxyacetic acid (cdoaH2) and 4-methylcoumarin-6,7-dioxyacetic acid (4-MecdoaH2): X-ray crystal structures of [Cu(cdoa)(phen)2].8.8H(2)O and [Cu(4-Mecdoa)(phen)2].13H2O (phen=1,10-phenanthroline).

Two novel coumarin-based ligands, coumarin-6,7-dioxyacetic acid (1) (cdoaH(2)) and 4-methylcoumarin-6,7-dioxyacetic acid (2) (4-MecdoaH(2)), were reacted with copper(II) and manganese(II) salts to give [Cu(cdoa)(H(2)O)(2)].1.5H(2)O (3), [Cu(4-Mecdoa)(H(2)O)(2)] (4), [Mn(cdoa)(H(2)O)(2)] (5) and [Mn(4-Mecdoa)(H(2)O)(2)].0.5H(2)O (6). The metal complexes, 3-6, were characterised by elemental analysis, IR and UV-Vis spectroscopy, and magnetic susceptibility measurements and were assigned a polymeric structure. 1 and 2 react with Cu(II) in the presence of excess 1,10-phenanthroline (phen) giving [Cu(cdoa)(phen)(2)].8.8H(2)O (7) and [Cu(4-Mecdoa)(phen)(2)].13H(2)O (8), respectively. The X-ray crystal structures of 7 and 8 confirmed trigonal bipyramidal geometries, with the metals bonded to the four nitrogen atoms of the two chelating phen molecules and to a single carboxylate oxygen of the dicarboxylate ligand. The complexes were screened for their antimicrobial activity against a number of microbial species, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Escherichia coli and Candida albicans. The metal-free ligands 1 and 2 were active against all of the microbes. Complexes 3-6 demonstrated no significant activity whilst the phen adducts 7 and 8 were active against MRSA (MIC(80)=12.1microM), E. coli (MIC(80)=14.9microM) and Patonea agglumerans (MIC(80)=12.6microM). Complex 7 also demonstrated anti-Candida activity (MIC(80)=22microM) comparable to that of the commercially available antifungal agent ketoconazole (MIC(80)=25microM).

An in vitro investigation of the induction of apoptosis and modulation of cell cycle events in human cancer cells by bisphenanthroline-coumarin-6,7-dioxacetatocopper(II) complex.

The central objective of the current study was to investigate the potential in vitro anti-proliferative properties of the parent ligand, coumarin-dioxy-acetic acid (cdoaH(2)), and its copper complex, copper-coumarin-dioxyacetic acetate-phenathroline ([Cu(cdoa)(phen)(2)]) using four human-derived model cell lines, two neoplastic and two non-neoplastic. In addition, selected mechanistic studies were carried out using one of the neoplastic-derived model cell lines, Hep-G2. Results obtained show that the complex, rather than the ligand, could alter the proliferation of both human neoplastic renal (A-498) and hepatic (Hep-G2) cells. Furthermore, hepatic non-neoplastic cells (Chang) appeared to be less sensitive. However, this effect was not mirrored in non-neoplastic renal (HK-2) cells, a profile shared with cisplatin. The observed anti-proliferative effect appeared to be concentration- and time-dependant, and could be attributed to the complex, rather than any of the component parts, i.e. 1,10-phenanthroline, the coumarin ligand, or the simple metal salt. Furthermore, the complex was shown to decrease DNA synthesis, but did not intercalate with it. Based on IC(50) values, [Cu(cdoa)(phen)(2)] was shown to be almost six times more potent than cisplatin. Moreover, there was no evidence to show that P-glycoprotein (P-gp)-mediated multi-drug resistance (MDR) was likely to play a role in decreasing the anti-proliferative activity of the complex. Cytological stains, analysis of genomic DNA, and biochemical assays [caspase-3 and -9 and cleaved poly(ADP-ribose)-polymerase protein], suggested that cell death could switch between apoptosis and necrosis, and this effect appeared to be concentration-dependent. Additionally, flow cytometric analysis showed that the complex functioned through an alteration in cell cycle progression. Taken together, [Cu(cdoa)(phen)(2)] has been shown to be a more potent anti-proliferative agent than either the ligand or cisplatin, and is capable of altering key biochemical events leading to the execution of apoptotic and/or necrotic cell death, suggesting that it is worthy of further investigation.

Synthesis, X-ray crystal structures and biomimetic and anticancer activities of novel copper(II)benzoate complexes incorporating 2-(4'-thiazolyl)benzimidazole (thiabendazole), 2-(2-pyridyl)benzimidazole and 1,10-phenanthroline as chelating nitrogen donor ligands.

Cu(BZA)(2)(EtOH)(0.5) (1) was generated by the reaction of copper(II) hydroxide with benzoic acid (BZAH). [Cu(TBZH)(2)(BZA)](BZA).0.5TBZH.H(2)O (2) and [Cu(2-PyBZIMH)(2-PyBZIM)(BZA)].1.66EtOH (3) were obtained when 1 reacted with Thiabendazole (TBZH) and 2-(2-pyridyl)benzimidazole (2-PyBZIMH), respectively. [Cu(BZA)(2)(phen)(H(2)O)] (4) was isolated from the reaction of benzoic acid and 1,10-phenanthroline (phen) with copper(II)acetate dihydrate. Molecular structures of 2, 3 and 4 were determined crystallographically. 2 and 3 are hydrogen bonded dimers and trimers, respectively. The copper centres in complexes 2 and 3 are bis-chelate derivatives that have N(4)O ligation and their geometry is very similar being approximately square-pyramidal. However whereas in complex 2 both TBZH ligands are neutral in 3 one of the 2-PyBZIMH chelators is deprotonated on each copper. The structural results for 4 represent a re-examination of this crystallographically known compound for which no hydrogen atom coordinates have been previously reported. It crystallises as a hydrogen bonded dimmer and is a mono-chelate of phen with each copper centre possessing N(2)O(3) ligation and square pyramidal geometry. The catalase and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities of the four complexes along with those of the known phenanthroline complexes [Cu(mal)(phen)(2)] and [Cu(phendione)(3)](ClO(4))(2) (malH(2)=malonic acid and phendione=1,10-phenanthroline-5,6-dione) were investigated. Complexes 1-4, the metal free ligands and a simple copper(II) salt were assessed for their cancer chemotherapeutic potential against the hepatocellular carcinoma (Hep-G(2)) and kidney adenocarcinoma (A-498) cell lines. TBZH, 2-PyBZIMH and benzoic acid when uncoordinated to a metal centre offer poor chemotherapeutic potential. copper(II) benzoate is significantly more active than the free acid. The bis-chelate derivatives [Cu(TBZH)(2)(BZA)](BZA).0.5TBZH.H(2)O (2) and [Cu(2-PyBZIMH)(2-PyBZIM)(BZA)].1.66EtOH (3) elicit a significant cytotoxic response to the cancer cell lines tested. Replacing TBZH and 2-PyBZIMH with phen to give [Cu(BZA)(2)(phen)(H(2)O)] (4) does not significantly increase the anti-cancer activity.

Mechanism of action of coumarin and silver(I)-coumarin complexes against the pathogenic yeast Candida albicans.

The anti-fungal activity and mode of action of a range of silver(I)-coumarin complexes was examined. The most potent silver(I)-coumarin complexes, namely 7-hydroxycoumarin-3-carboxylatosilver(I), 6-hydroxycoumarin-3-carboxylatosilver(I) and 4-oxy-3-nitrocoumarinbis(1,10-phenanthroline)silver(I), had MIC80 values of between 69.1 and 4.6 microM against the pathogenic yeast Candida albicans. These compounds also reduced respiration, lowered the ergosterol content of cells and increased the trans-membrane leakage of amino acids. A number of the complexes disrupted cytochrome synthesis in the cell and induced the appearance of morphological features consistent with cell death by apoptosis. These compounds appear to act by disrupting the synthesis of cytochromes which directly affects the cell's ability to respire. A reduction in respiration leads to a depletion in ergosterol biosynthesis and a consequent disruption of the integrity of the cell membrane. Disruption of cytochrome biosynthesis may induce the onset of apoptosis which has been shown previously to be triggered by alteration in the location of cytochrome c. Silver(I)-coumarin complexes demonstrate good anti-fungal activity and manifest a mode of action distinct to that of the conventional azole and polyene drugs thus raising the possibility of their use when resistance to conventional drug has emerged or in combination with such drugs.

In vitro cancer chemotherapeutic activity of 1,10-phenanthroline (phen), [Ag2(phen)3(mal)]x2H2O, [Cu(phen)2(mal)]x2H2O and [Mn(phen)2(mal)]x2H2O (malH2=malonic acid) using human cancer cells.

The chemotherapeutic potential of 1,10-phenanthroline (phen), and three of its transition metal complexes, namely [Cu(phen)(2)(mal)]x2H(2)O, [Mn(phen)(2)(mal)]x2H(2)O and [Ag(2)(phen)(3)(mal)]x2H(2)O (malH(2)=malonic acid) was determined using two human carcinoma cell lines (A-498 and Hep-G2). Phen and the three metal-phen complexes induced a concentration-dependent cytotoxic effect, with metal complexes demonstrating the greatest cytotoxic response. In comparative studies, IC(50) values show cytotoxicity of between 3 and 18 times greater than that observed for the metal-based anti-cancer agent, cisplatin. All of the phen-based complexes inhibited DNA synthesis which did not appear to be mediated through intercalation. Also, the potential cancer chemotherapeutic application of these compounds was seen to be enhanced by results obtained from Ames tests, which showed all of the test agents and their phase I metabolites were non-mutagenic. Taken together, these results suggest that phen and the three metal-phen complexes may have a therapeutic role to play in the successful treatment and management of cancer.

In vitro anti-tumour and cyto-selective effects of coumarin-3-carboxylic acid and three of its hydroxylated derivatives, along with their silver-based complexes, using human epithelial carcinoma cell lines.

The chemotherapeutic potential of coumarin-3-carboxylic acid (C-3-COOH) and a series of three hydroxylated coumarin-3-carboxylic acid ligands, namely 6-hydroxy-coumarin-3-carboxylic acid (6-OH-C-3-COOH), 7-hydroxy-coumarin-3-carboxylic acid (7-OH-C-3-COOH) and 8-hydroxy-coumarin-3-carboxylic acid (8-OH-C-3-COOH), along with their corresponding silver-based complexes, namely 6-hydroxycoumarin-3-carboxylatosilver (6-OH-C-COO-Ag), 7-hydroxycoumarin-3-carboxylatosilver (7-OH-C-COO-Ag) and 8-hydroxycoumarin-3-carboxylatosilver (8-OH-C-COO-Ag), was determined using two human-derived carcinoma (A-498 and Hep-G2), along with two non-carcinoma human-derived cell lines (CHANG and HK-2). All of the ligands and their silver complexes induced a concentration-dependent cytotoxic effect. Furthermore, hydroxylation of C-3-COOH and its subsequent complexation with silver led to the production of a series of compounds with dramatically enhanced cytotoxicity, with 6-OH-C-3-COO-Ag having the greatest activity. Additionally, all of the metal-based complexes were selectively cytotoxic to both carcinoma-derived cell lines, relative to normal renal and hepatic cells. In comparative studies with cisplatin, and based on the IC(50) values obtained with Hep-G2 cells, it appeared that the coumarin-silver complexes were between 2 and 5.5 times more cytotoxic than cisplatin. All of the coumarin-silver complexes inhibited DNA synthesis, which did not appear to be mediated through intercalation. Furthermore, results obtained from Ames tests showed that all of the test agents and their phase I metabolites were non-mutagenic. Taken together, these findings suggest that both hydroxylation particularly in the 6th position and complexation with silver, served to significantly augment the cytotoxic properties of C-3-COOH, to yield a compound which acts as a cyto-selective agent, as it is a significant killer of cancer, relative to normal cells. We suggest that this group of compounds may have a therapeutic role to play in the successful treatment and management of cancer in man.

A study of the role of apoptotic cell death and cell cycle events mediating the mechanism of action of 6-hydroxycoumarin-3-carboxylatosilver in human malignant hepatic cells.

Previously our research group has studied the anti-proliferative effects of a series of hydroxylated derivatives and silver (I) complexes of coumarin-3-carboxylic acid (C-3-COOH) using two human-derived carcinoma cell lines (A-498 and Hep-G2). Results obtained suggested that both hydroxylation and complexation with silver served to significantly augment the cytotoxic properties of C-3-COOH, to yield a compound, namely 6-hydroxycoumarin-3-carboxylatosilver (6-OH-C-COO-Ag) which could act as a potent and cyto-selective agent, capable of killing cancer cells, and with limited toxicity to cells derived from normal tissue. Here we seek to expand on these findings by probing the molecular mechanism underlying this effect. Results from cytological staining clearly illustrated cellular changes consistent with the induction of apoptotic cell death and which occurred 24 h post-drug-treatment. Additionally, electrophoretic analysis of genomic DNA showed the presence of a ladder pattern, characteristic of apoptotic cell death. This result was subsequently confirmed using a selection of biochemical assays, where increased activity of pro-apoptotic caspases 3 and 9, and increased cleavage of poly(ADP-ribose)-polymerase protein (PARP) were observed. This result was further underpinned by the appearance of a sub-G(1) peak, representing hypo-diploid cells, using flow cytometric analysis. Furthermore, 6-OH-C-COO-Ag was seen to function through an alteration in the percentage of cells entering the G(0)/G(1) phase of cell cycle. Consequently, 6-OH-C-COO-Ag has been shown to a more potent and selective anti-cancer agent than cisplatin, capable of altering key biochemical events leading to the execution of apoptotic cell death as early as 24 h post-treatment, suggesting that it may represent a novel therapeutic agent for the safe and effective treatment of cancer in man.

In vitro anti-tumour effect of 1,10-phenanthroline-5,6-dione (phendione), [Cu(phendione)3](ClO4)2.4H2O and [Ag(phendione)2]ClO4 using human epithelial cell lines.

The anti-cancer chemotherapeutic potential of 1,10-phenanthroline-5,6-dione (phendione), [Cu(phendione)(3)](ClO(4))(2).4H(2)O and [Ag(phendione)(2)]ClO(4) were determined using four human cells lines, i.e. two neoplastic (A-498 and Hep-G2) and two non-neoplastic (CHANG and HK-2). All of the phendione derivatives induced a concentration-dependant decrease in the viability of the four cell lines, with [Cu(phendione)(3)](ClO(4))(2).4H(2)O displaying greatest activity. In comparative studies, IC(50) values obtained with the two neoplastic cell lines showed a cytotoxic response which was between 3 and 35 times greater than that observed for the metal-based anti-cancer agent, cisplatin. Furthermore, metal-phendione complexes, rather than simple solvated metal ions, were responsible for the observed cytotoxicity. Despite the high level of potency associated with these compounds they did not display an apparent cyto-selective profile, as they reduced the viability of both neoplastic and non-neoplastic cells. However, selected mechanistic studies showed that phendione and its metal complexes inhibited DNA synthesis which did not appear to be mediated through intercalation. Ames testing highlighted that all three compounds and their phase I metabolites were non-mutagenic, unlike cisplatin. Taken together, these results suggest that phendione and its Cu(II) and Ag(I) complexes may be capable of acting as highly effective anti-cancer therapies, which with careful administration could provide very potent and effective alternatives to cisplatin.

Synthesis, Superoxide Dismutase Mimetic and Anticancer Activities of Metal Complexes of 2,2-Dimethylpentanedioic Acid(2dmepdaH(2)) and 3,3-Dimethylpentanedioic acid(3dmepdaH(2)): X-Ray Crystal Structures of [Cu(3dmepda)(bipy)](2). 6H(2)O and [Cu(2dmepda)(bipy)(EtOH)](2). 4EtOH (bipy = 2,2'Bipyridine).

2,2-dimethylpentanedioic acid (2dmepdaH(2)) and 3,3-dimethylpentanedioic acid (3dmepdaH(2)) reacted with copper(II) acetate to give [Cu(2dmepda)(H(2)O)(3)](2) (1) and [Cu(3dmepda)(H(2)O)(3)](2) (2). Reaction of (1) and (2) with 1,10-phenanthroline and 2,2'-bipyridine yielded [Cu(2dmepda)(phen)(H(2)O)](2)0.5phen (3), [Cu(2dmepda)(bipy)(H(2)O)](2) (4), [Cu(2dmepda)(bipy)(EtOH)](2). 2EtOH (4A), [Cu(3dmepda)(phen)(H(2)O)](2) (5), and [Cu(3dmepda)(bipy)(H(2)O)](2). (6). The structures of (4A) and (6) each consists of a [Cu(bipy)(dicarboxylate)(solvent)](2) dimer. The superoxide dismutase (SOD) mimetic activity of the novel copper complexes and their manganese analogues was investigated. The dimethyl sulphoxide(DMSO) soluble complexes (1)-(4) and (6) were assessed for their cancer chemotherapeutic potential towards hepatocellular carcinoma and kidney adenocarcinoma cell lines. The 1,10-phenanthroline containing complex [Cu(2dmepda)(phen)(H(2)O)](2)0.5phen (3) was the most potent with activity that compares well to that of cisplatin.

Activation of mitogen activated protein kinase pathways and melanogenesis by novel nitro-derivatives of 7-hydroxycomarin in human malignant melanoma cells.

6-Nitro-7-hydroxycoumarin (6-NO2-7-OHC) and 3,6,8-trinitro-7-hydroxycoumarin (3,6,8-NO2-7-OHC) have previously been shown to be potent and selective anti-proliferative agents in a human melanoma cell line. These agents functioned by decreasing DNA synthesis, through an inhibition of the S phase regulatory protein, cyclin A. However, the key molecular target(s) for these drugs remained undefined. Here, we attempted to elucidate the exact nature of the relationship between drug exposure and signal transduction, particularly their effects on the mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascades, and the consequent effect on cell growth, death and differentiation. Comparative studies were carried out using 7-hydroxycoumarin (7-OHC). Both nitro-derivatives were found to alter the phosphorylation status of ERK1/ERK2 and p38. However, 7-OHC exerted this effect only at higher concentrations and longer incubation times. Also, none of the three drugs had any effect on SAPK phosphorylation. Tyrosinase activity assays and morphological studies were used to show drug-induced effects on cellular differentiation. Unlike 7-OHC, both 6-NO2-7-OHC and 3,6,8-NO2-7-OHC caused a dramatic increase in tyrosinase activity in a manner similar to the cAMP elevating agent, forskolin. Also, the MEK inhibitor (PD98059) in combination with nitro-derivatives stimulated an even greater increase in tyrosinase activity when compared to either drug. In addition, the p38 inhibitor (SB203580) reduced the activity of both drugs. Morphological examination of treated cells showed nitro-derivatives caused changes consistent with altered cellular differentiation. Taken together, we have established that exposure of human malignant melanoma cells to these drugs leads to a modulation of p38 MAP kinase phosphorylation. This implies that these drugs may function by altering both melanogenesis and cellular differentiation. However, their effect on the levels of these proteins rather than their phosphorylation status remains to be determined. Therefore, additional studies are underway in order to identify the exact binding partners for these drugs.

A study of the role of cell cycle events mediating the action of coumarin derivatives in human malignant melanoma cells.

6-Nitro-7-hydroxycoumarin (6-NO2-7-OHC) and 3,6,8-trinitro-7-hydroxycoumarin (3,6,8-NO2-7-OHC) have previously been shown to be potent and selective anti-proliferative agents to the human skin cell line, SK-MEL-31. Here, we investigate the reversibility of their cytotoxicity, along with their effects on DNA synthesis and cell cycle events. Comparative studies were carried out using the main metabolite of coumarin in man, 7-hydroxycoumarin (7-OHC). 6-NO2-7-OHC and 3,6,8-NO2-7-OHC, were found to be irreversible cytotoxic agents, unlike 7-OHC. All three derivatives inhibited DNA synthesis, but 7-OHC was only nitro-derivatives which acted in an irreversible manner. Flow cytometric studies demonstrated that both nitro-derivatives caused a dose- and time-dependant S phase accumulation. 7-OHC exerted a similar effect, but appeared to be less potent. Finally, the two nitro-derivatives caused a dose-dependant inhibition of the S phase regulatory protein, cyclin A. Consequently, these and other nitro-derivatives of 7-OHC may represent novel therapeutic agents for the treatment of malignant melanoma as they are capable of selective and irreversible cytotoxicity.

Synthesis, X-ray crystal structure, anti-fungal and anti-cancer activity of [Ag2(NH3)2(salH)2] (salH2=salicylic acid).

[Ag(2)(NH(3))(2)(salH)(2)] (salH(2)=salicylic acid) was synthesised from salicylic acid and Ag(2)O in concentrated aqueous NH(3) and the dimeric Ag(I) complex was characterised using X-ray crystallography. The complex is centrosymmetric with each metal coordinated to a salicylate carboxylate oxygen and to an ammonia nitrogen atom in an almost linear fashion. The two [Ag(NH(3))(salH)] units in the complex are linked by an Ag-Ag bond. Whilst metal-free salH(2) did not prevent the growth of the fungal pathogen Candida albicans [Ag(2)(NH(3))(2)(salH)(2)], [Ag(2)(salH)(2)] and some simple Ag(I) salts greatly inhibited cell reproduction. SalH(2), [Ag(2)(NH(3))(2)(salH)(2)] [Ag(2)(salH)(2)] and AgClO(4) produced a dose-dependent cytotoxic response against the three human derived cancer cell lines, Cal-27, Hep-G2 and A-498, with the Ag(I)-containing reagents being the most effective.

Synthesis, antimicrobial activity and chemotherapeutic potential of inorganic derivatives of 2-(4'-thiazolyl)benzimidazole[thiabendazole]: X-ray crystal structures of [Cu(TBZH)2Cl]Cl.H2O.EtOH and TBZH2NO3 (TBZH=thiabendazole).

Thiabendazole (TBZH) reacts with iron(III) nitrate causing protonation of the ligand to yield the nitrate salt [TBZH(2)NO(3)] (1). Reaction of TBZH with copper(II) acetate results in the deprotonation of the ligand yielding [Cu(TBZ)2.(H2O)2] (2). Reactions of TBZH with the chloride, nitrate and butanedioate salts of copper(II) yields [Cu(TBZH)2Cl]Cl.H2O.EtOH (3), [Cu(TBZH)(2)(NO(3))(2)] (4) and [Cu(TBZH)(O(2)C-CH(2)CH(2)-CO(2))] (5), respectively. The TBZH acts as a neutral chelating ligand in 3-5. Molecular structures of 1 and 3 were determined crystallographically. In 1, the asymmetric unit contains one TBZH(2)(+) cation and one NO(3)(-) anion. The structure of 3 comprises a five coordinate copper centre with the metal bound to two chelating TBZH ligands and one chloride. The geometry is best described as trigonal bipyramidal. Hydrogen bonding connects the complex cation with the uncoordinated chloride anion and the water and ethanol solvate molecules. Compound 1 and the copper complexes 2-5, the metal free ligands and a number of simple copper(II) salts were each tested for their ability to inhibit the growth of Candida albicans. The metal free TBZH and its nitrate salt (1) exhibited very poor activity. Complex 2, in which the TBZH is present as an anionic ligand (TBZ(-)), exhibits moderate activity towards the pathogen. Chelation of the neutral TBZH to copper centres (complexes 3-5) results in potent anti-candida activity. The dimethyl sulphoxide (DMSO) soluble complexes 3 and 4, along with metal free TBZH were assessed for their cancer chemotherapeutic potential towards two human epithelial-derived cancer model cell lines. Complexes 3 and 4 displayed similar dose-dependent cytotoxicity in both cell lines with IC(50) values of approximately 50 microM, which were found to be significantly lower than that for metal free TBZH.

Daphnetin induced differentiation of human renal carcinoma cells and its mediation by p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase.

Daphnetin has been shown to be a potent in vitro anti-proliferative agent to the human renal cell carcinoma (RCC) cell line, A-498. In the present study, we investigated its effects on mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signalling along with cell cycle events and cellular differentiation. Daphnetin-activated p38, however, higher concentrations were required to inhibit ERK1/ERK2. In addition, it did not activate SAPK or induce apoptosis, but instead inhibited S phase cell cycle transition of A-498 cells at low concentrations and time of exposure. In addition, a late G(1), early S phase inhibition was observed at higher concentrations and time of exposure, indicating that the mechanism of daphnetin-induced differentiation was concentration dependent. Increased expression of the epithelial differentiation markers cytokeratins 8 and 18, correlated with increasing concentrations of daphnetin, while pre-treatment with a specific p38-inhibitor, served to limit this effect. There was no evidence that P-glycoprotein (P-gp) mediated multi-drug resistance (MDR) played a role in the anti-proliferative activity of daphnetin. Consequently, we concluded that p38 MAP kinase is intrinsically involved in mediating the effect of daphnetin in A-498 cells, suggesting that this drug may act by promotion of cellular maturation, and consequently may represent a novel low toxic approach for the treatment of poorly differentiated RCCs.