Identification of differential anti-neoplastic activity of copper bis(thiosemicarbazones) that is mediated by intracellular reactive oxygen species generation and lysosomal membrane permeabilization

Bis(thiosemicarbazones) and their copper complexes possess unique anti-neoplastic properties. However, their mechanism of action remains unclear. We examined twelve bis(thiosemicarbazones) to elucidate mechanisms behind their anti-cancer efficacy. For the first time, this investigation highlights the role of reactive oxygen species and lysosomal membrane permeabilization in the anti-cancer activity of bis(thiosemicarbazones).