Advances in medicinal inorganic chemistry: Exploiting the biological activity of metal arene complexes
Rafols Parellada, Laia
Rafols Parellada, Laia
Publication Date
End of Embargo
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The University of Bradford theses are licenced under a Creative Commons Licence.
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Accepted for publication
Institution
University of Bradford
Department
School of Chemistry and Biosciences. Faculty of Life Sciences
Awarded
2023
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Abstract
Half-sandwich complexes containing transition metals offer a wide range of applications owing to their interactions with a variety of targets/molecules that are not accessible for some organic scaffolds. The use of such complexes is therefore a way
to provide new mechanisms of action. In this thesis, a series of metal complexes containing ruthenium, osmium, cobalt, rhodium, and iridium are explored for different biological applications, such as antibacterial and anticancer activities. Herein, the ability of some of these complexes to act as biocatalysts to reduce the coenzyme NAD+ in presence of sodium formate is reported, alongside in-depth studies on their chemistry in solution, and their mode of action within the cell. The metal ion (Ru, Os, Rh, Ir) can strongly alter the reactivity of the complexes in solution, and therefore, their biological activity. This work gives insights into our understanding of this class of compounds and paves the way for finding better chemotherapeutic agents to palliate the side effects and the resistance of current treatments.
On a related note, preliminary data on some complexes containing the biocompatible metal cobalt are also reported. This data demonstrates the potential of these complexes to be explored more in detail and be considered as a promising alternative
to its heavier congeners rhodium and iridium. This thesis highlights the significance of organometallic chemistry and brings to light a bright future for this class of complexes, as their versatility and adaptability make them a cornerstone of modern chemistry.
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Type
Thesis
Qualification name
PhD