Tunable DNA cleavage activity promoted by copper(ii) ternary complexes with N-donor heterocyclic ligands

Abstract

Several small molecules have the capacity to cleave DNA promptly at high yields, even under mild conditions. Usually, this activity has no constraints, occurring without external or user control. Here, we demonstrate that UV-light exposure can greatly enhance the DNA cleavage activity promoted by four ternary copper(ii) complexes. A remarkable photocontrolled activity was achieved, which may be interesting for chemical and biochemical applications.

Mixed Ternary Mononuclear Copper(II) Complexes Based on Valproic Acid with 1,10-Phenanthroline and 2,2’-Bipyridine Ligands: DNA Interaction and Cytotoxicity in V79 Cells

“…Furthermore, photo-cleavage of nucleic acids by transition-metal complexes emerges as a field of great interest to improve the development of new therapeutic approaches. 19,20 The valproic acid (VPA) is one of the oldest drugs used in seizure, bipolar disorder and migraine headaches therapy. 21 More recently, VPA has been described as an histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor, that is able to alter expression of many genes.…”

Synthesis, DNA Interaction and Genotoxic Evaluation of a Photoactive Benzothiadiazole with Potential Application in Photovoltaic Paint

“…A redshift is also observed for the 275 nm band. These observations are usually associated with a groove binding interaction mode 46,52,53 or, in some cases, to an external interaction as can be observed in high salt concentrations associated to electrostatic binding. 54 For this compound, the interaction with a DNA molecule is likely based on electrostatic interactions with the sugar-phosphate backbone, and allowed by the quadrupolar character that is present.…”

“…Currently, in vitro genotoxicity tests are based on established methods for the characterization of the hazards associated with chemical products. 47,49,56,57 The genotoxicity evaluation of effects of the first (1 -1 and higher) when compared to other copper(II) complexes, 46,53 characterize this complex as a weak binder.…”

Peroxoniobium inhibits leukemia cell growth

“…The XRD of the lyophilized polyoxoniobate indicated strong amorphous character. However, the polyoxoniobate is known to form well dened polyoxometalates such as Lindqvist ([Nb 6 The generation of reactive oxygen under radiation was conrmed by the reaction of the complex with an organic dye, which was monitored by UV-Vis spectroscopy (Fig. 3).…”

“…Selective light activation allows a preferential tumor destruction in comparison to healthy tissues. 4 Several metal complexes exhibit photocytotoxicity under UV or visible light, 5,6 but data about niobium compounds are very scarce in the literature.…”