Linear gold(I) complex with tris-(2-carboxyethyl)phosphine (TCEP): Selective antitumor activity and inertness toward sulfur proteins

A novel hydrosoluble complex of AuI with tris-(2-carboxyethyl)phosphine (TCEP) is reported. Antiproliferative assays against nine tumorigenic and one non-tumorigenic cell lines demonstrate selectivity against ovarian cancer. Investigation on the substitution reactions toward sulfur-rich proteins reveals the complex is inert to such reactions suggesting less toxic effects.187