Mitochondria as a target of third row transition metal-based anticancer complexes

Abstract

In pursuit of better treatment options for malignant tumors, metal-based complexes continue to show promise as attractive chemotherapeutics due to tunability, novel mechanisms, and potency exemplified by platinum agents. The metabolic character of tumors renders the mitochondria and other metabolism pathways fruitful targets for medicinal inorganic chemistry. Cumulative understanding of the role of mitochondria in tumorigenesis has ignited research in mitochondrial targeting metal-based complexes to overcome resistance and inhibit tumor growth with high potency and selectivity. Here, we discuss recent progress made in third row transition metal-based mitochondrial targeting agents with the goal of stimulating an active field of research toward new clinical anticancer agents and the elucidation of novel mechanisms of action.

Keywords: Gold; Iridium; Metabolism; Metal-based drugs; Mitochondria-targeting; Platinum; Rhenium.