Redox-active cytotoxic diorganotin(IV) cycloalkylhydroxamate complexes with different ring sizes: Reduction behaviour and theoretical interpretation

► Redox-active cytotoxic diorganotin(IV) cycloalkylhydroxamate complexes. ► Polymeric complexes usually display stronger activities against tested cells. ► Mononuclear dibutyltin(IV) complexes are more active against BGC-823 than cisplatin. ► Combined theoretical/electrochemical studies with bioactivity significance. ► Reduction mechanism dependent on the type of organo (R) ligand.