SOD mimics: From the tool box of the chemists to cellular studies

Curr Opin Chem Biol. 2022 Apr:67:102109. doi: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2021.102109. Epub 2022 Jan 20.

Abstract

Superoxide dismutases (SODs) are metalloproteins that protect cells against oxidative stress by controlling the concentration of superoxide (O2-) through catalysis of its dismutation. The activity of superoxide dismutases can be mimicked by low-molecular-weight complexes having potential therapeutic applications. This review presents recent strategies for designing efficient SOD mimics, from molecular metal complexes to nanomaterials. Studies of these systems in cells reveal that some SOD mimics, designed to react directly with superoxide, may also indirectly enhance the cellular antioxidant arsenal. Finally, a good understanding of the bioactivity requires information on the cell-penetration, speciation, and subcellular location of the SOD mimics: we will describe recent studies and new techniques that open opportunities for characterizing SOD mimics in biological environments.

Keywords: Cellular studies; Design of metallodrugs; SOD mimics or mimetics; X-fluorescence imaging or X-fluorescence microscopy XFM.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Biomimetic Materials
  • Catalysis
  • Coordination Complexes*
  • Metalloproteins*
  • Superoxide Dismutase*
  • Superoxides

Substances

  • Coordination Complexes
  • Metalloproteins
  • Superoxides
  • Superoxide Dismutase