Cytotoxic dinuclear titanium-salan complexes: Structural and biological characterization

Controlled hydrolysis of donor-substituted titanium-salan complexes led to the formation of well-defined dinuclear complexes. Structure determination by means of X-ray and NMR-studies revealed the presence of a single μ-oxo bridge and one labile alkoxide ligand per titanium center. Concomitant cytotoxicity assays of the isolated dinuclear complexes showed cytotoxicities in the low micro-molar region, surpassing in this respect even their monomeric ancestors, thus making them possible highly active metabolites of titanium-salan anti-cancer drugs.

Controlled hydrolysis of donor-substituted titanium (IV) salan complexes led to the formation of well-defined dinuclear complexes with cytotoxicities in the low micro-molar region.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► Donor substituted Ti(IV)salan complexes are cytotoxic in human cancer cell lines.
► Structurally characterized dinuclear complexes form upon fast hydrolysis.
► μ2-oxo bridged dinuclear complexes show enhanced cytotoxicity.
► First identified cytotoxic intermediates from Ti(IV)salan hydrolysis.
► Partial hydrolysis acts as activating mechanism.