Oxovanadium(IV) and (V) complexes of acetylpyridine-derived semicarbazones exhibit insulin-like activity

Reaction of 2-acetylpyridine semicarbazone (H2APS), 3-acetylpyridine semicarbazone (H3APS) and 4-acetylpyridine semicarbazone (H4APS) with [VO(acac)2] (acac = acetylacetonate) gave [VO(H2APS)(acac)2] (1), [VO(H3APS)(acac)2] (2) and [VO(4APS)(acac)(H2O)] · 1/2H2O (3). Oxidation of complex 1 in acetonitrile gave [VO2(2APS)] (4). The crystal structures of complexes 1 and 4 have been determined. Complexes 1–3 were able to enhance glucose uptake and to inhibit glycerol release from adipocytes, which indicate their potential to act as insulin-mimics.

Reaction of 2-acetylpyridine (H2APS), 3-acetylpyridine (H3APS) and 4-acetylpyridine semicarbazone (H4APS) with [VO(acac)2] (acac = acetylacetonate) gave [VO(H2APS)(acac)2] (1), [VO(H3APS)(acac)2] (2) and [VO(4APS)(acac)(H2O)] · 1/2H2O (3). Oxidation of complex 1 gave [VO2(2APS)] (4). Complexes 1–3 were able to enhance glucose uptake and inhibit glycerol release from adipocytes.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slide