Underestimated potential of organometallic rhenium complexes as anticancer agents

ACS Chem Biol. 2014 Oct 17;9(10):2180-93. doi: 10.1021/cb500528c. Epub 2014 Aug 25.

Abstract

In the recent years, organometallic compounds have become recognized as promising anti-cancer drug candidates. While radioactive (186/188)Re compounds are already used in clinics for cancer treatment, cold Re organometallic compounds have mostly been explored as luminescent probes for cell imaging and photosensitizers in photocatalysis. However, a growing number of studies have recently revealed the potential of Re organometallic complexes as anti-cancer agents. Several compounds have displayed cytotoxicity equaling or exceeding that of the well-established anti-cancer drug cisplatin. In this review, we present the currently known Re organometallic complexes that have shown anti-proliferative activity on cancer cell lines. A particular emphasis is placed on their cellular uptake and localization as well as their potential mechanism of action.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antineoplastic Agents / pharmacology*
  • Humans
  • Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Organometallic Compounds / pharmacology*
  • Rhenium / pharmacology*

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Organometallic Compounds
  • Rhenium