Synthesis of novel NHC–Rh complexes with anti-tumor activity against MCF-7 human breast cancer cells

Abstract

A series of novel N-heterocyclic carbene rhodium complexes (NHC-Rh), containing benzimidazole framework, were prepared smoothly by a five-step route. Their structures were elucidated based on spectral techniques, including NMR and MS spectrometry. Along with several NHC-Rh complexes we prepared before, the compounds prepared herein were evaluated for their cytotoxicities against MCF human breast cancer cells and several of them showed strong activities with IC 50 values ranging from 0.38 to 1.18μM, which were better than the positive control paclitaxel.