Microwave-assisted synthesis of arene ruthenium(II) complexes that induce S-phase arrest in cancer cells by DNA damage-mediated p53 phosphorylation

► A series of arene Ru(II) complexes were synthesized under microwave irradiation. ► The crystal structure of complex 1b gives a typical “piano stool” conformation. ► These complexes exhibit acceptable antitumor activities but low cytotoxicity. ► S-phase arrest of MG-63 cells induced by complex 2b was determined. ► DNA damage triggered by complex 2b was identified.