Mono- and dicarboxylic polypyridyl-Ru complexes as potential cell DNA dyes and transfection agents

A ruthenium coordination complex, incorporating two highly extended π-systems DIP and two carboxylic groups: [Ru(DIP)2(L–L)]2+ where DIP = 4,7-diphenyl-1,10-phenanthroline and L–L = 4,4′-dicarboxy-2,2′-bipyridine, is found to be of biological interest. It constitutes an effective nuclear DNA dye for living cells: fluorescent, permeant, biocompatible, high Stokes shift. These features are commented in terms of hydrophobicity and DNA binding. In addition, this complex is shown to internalize a plasmid carrying the enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) gene. Positive results are obtained for gene expression, which is related to condensation of the DNA by this ruthenium agent. This opens up an innovative transfection route based on metal complexes.