Some dicopper complexes of benzimidazole-containing ligands.

Dicopper complexes of the following benzimidazole-containing ligands have been studied as possible models for the active site of hemocyanin: EDTB (N,N,N',N'-tetrakis-(2-benzimidazolylmethyl)-1,2-ethanediamine), EGTB (1,1,10,10-tetrakis-(2-benzimidazolylmethyl)-1,10-diaza-4,7- dioxadecane), and MEGTB (1,1,10,10-tetrakis-(1-methylbenzimidazol-2-y lmethyl)-1,10-diaza-4,7-dioxadecane). The initial oxygenation product of Cu2(EDTB)(ClO4)2 in Me2SO gives optical absorption maxima at 315 nm (epsilon = 3750 M-1 cm-1) and 690 nm (epsilon = 100 M-1 cm-1). The fluorescence emission intensities of Cu2(EDTB)(ClO4)2 at 400 and 700 nm (excitation at 350 nm) decreases rapidly on exposure to air. This suggests oxidation of Cu2(I) to Cu2(II). The x-ray absorption edge spectra suggest that both coppers in the oxygenation product, analyzed as Cu2(EDTB)(ClO4)2(O).3H2O, are Cu(II). From spectrophotometric titration of Cu2(MEGTB)Cl4 with azide, formation constant of the Cu2(MEGTB)N3Cl3 complex has been obtained. Data from cyclic voltammetry experiments suggest that in the presence of azide, Cu(II)(N3)Cu(II) species is present.     

Three new Cu(II) and Cd(II) complexes with 3-(2-pyridyl)pyrazole-based ligand: syntheses, crystal structures, and evaluations for bioactivities

Three new complexes [Cu(L)(2)(NO(3))](NO(3))(H(2)O)(1/2)(CH(3)OH)(1/2) (1), [Cd(L)(2)(NO(3))(2)](H(2)O)(3) (2) and [Cd(L)(2)(ClO(4))(CH(3)OH)](ClO(4))(H(2)O)(1/4)(CH(3)OH) (3) (L=1-[3-(2-pyridyl)pyrazol-1-ylmethyl]naphthalene) were synthesized and characterized by elemental analyses, IR and X-ray diffraction analysis. Among them, the Cu(II) and Cd(II) ions were both coordinated by four N donors from two distinct L ligands via N,N-bidentate chelating coordination mode. Additional weak interactions, such as the face-to-face pi-pi stacking and C-Hcdots, three dots, centeredO H-bonding interactions, linked the mononuclear unit into 1D chain and further into 2D network. Complexes 1-3 were subjected to biological assays in vitro against six different cancer cell lines. All of them exhibited cytotoxic specificity and notable cancer cell inhibitory rate. The interactions of 1-3 with calf thymus DNA were investigated by thermal denaturation, viscosity measurements, spectrophotometric and electrophoresis methods. The results indicate that these complexes bound to DNA by intercalation mode via the ligand L and had different nuclease activities, which were in good agreement with their DNA-binding strength. Moreover, the central metal ions of 1-3 played a vital role in DNA-binding behaviors, DNA-cleavage activities and cytotoxicities, whereas the contribution of the different counter anions to their bioactivities also should not be ignored.     

Comparison of hemocyanin from Taiwan snails with a synthetic dicopper(I) oxygen carrier

Some properties and reactions of Achatina fulica hemocyanin (Hc) from Taiwan snails have been compared with those of a synthetic dicopper oxygen carrier, Cu₂(EDTB)(ClO₄)₂, (where EDTB is N,N,N′,N′- tetrakis(2-benzimidazolylmethyl)-1,2-ethanediamine), serving as an active-site model. The colorless solution of Cu₂(EDTB)(ClO₄)₂ in dimethylsulfoxide shows an uptake of oxygen to give a green solution with an electronic spectrum characteristic of Cu(II). Addition of ascorbic acid, AA, results in decolorization of the solution, and the cycle can be repeated 3–4 times. This is similar to the effect of AA on Hc, except that oxyhemocyanin is blue instead of green. The solids of green and colorless forms of the synthetic compound give ESCA Cu(2P_3/2, 2P_1/2) main peaks in the same positions. However, only the green solid spectrum shows ‘shake-up’ satellites, indicating Cu(II). By treatment with KCN, Cu can be removed from Hc and from Cu₂(EDTB)(ClO₂), and Cu can be reconstituted into both. Properties and reactions of the reconstituted Hc and native Hc are compared.     

Synthesis,crystal structure,and nuclease activity of planar mono-heterocyclic base copper(II) complexes

A series of mononuclear copper(II) complexes having a 1:1 molar ratio of copper and the planar heterocyclic base like 1,10-phenanthroline (phen), dipyrido[3,2-d:2',3'-f]quinoxaline (dpq) and dipyrido[3,2-a:2',3'-c]phenazine (dppz) are prepared from a reaction of copper(II) nitrate.trihydrate and the base (L) in ethanol or aqueous ethanol at different temperatures. The complexes [Cu(dpq)(NO(3))(2)] (2), [Cu(dpq)(NO(3))(H(2)O)(2)](NO(3)) (3), [Cu(dpq)(NO(3))(2)(H(2)O)(2)].2H(2)O (4.2H(2)O) and [Cu(dppz)(NO(3))(2)(H(2)O)].H(2)O (5.H(2)O) have been characterized by X-ray crystallography. The crystal structures show the presence of the heterocyclic base in the basal plane. The coordination geometries of the copper(II) centers are axially elongated square-pyramidal (4+1) in 2, 3 and 5, and octahedral (4+2) in 4. The nitrate anion in the coordination sphere displays unidentate and bidentate chelating bonding modes. The axial ligand is either H(2)O or NO(3) in these structures giving a Cu-L(ax) distance of approximately 2.4 A. The one-electron paramagnetic complexes (mu approximately 1.8 mu(B)) exhibit axial EPR spectra in DMF glass at 77 K giving g(parallel)>g( perpendicular ) with an A(parallel) value of approximately 170G indicating a [d(x)2(-y)2](1) ground state. The complexes are redox active and display a quasireversible cyclic voltammetric response for the Cu(II)/Cu(I) couple near 0.0 V vs. SCE giving an order of the E(1/2) values as 5(dppz)>2-4 (dpq)>[Cu(phen)(2)(H(2)O)](2+)>1 (phen). The complexes bind to calf thymus DNA giving an order 5 (dppz)>2 (dpq)>[Cu(phen)(2)(H(2)O)](2+)>1 (phen). An effect of the extended planar ring in dpq and dppz is observed in the DNA binding. The complexes show nuclease activity with pUC19 supercoiled DNA in DMF/Tris-HCl buffer containing NaCl in presence of mercaptopropanoic acid as a reducing agent. The extent of cleavage follows the order: [Cu(phen)(2)(H(2)O)](ClO(4))(2)>5>2 approximately 3 approximately 4>1. The bis-phen complex is a better cleaver of SC DNA than 1-5 having mono-heterocyclic base. Mechanistic investigations using distamycin reveal minor groove biding for the phen, dpq complexes, and a major groove binding for the dppz complex 5. The cleavage reactions are found to be inhibited in the presence of hydroxyl radical scavenger DMSO and the reactions are proposed to proceed via sugar hydrogen abstraction pathway. The ancillary ligand is found to have less effect in DNA binding but are of importance in DNA cleavage reactions.     

Mechanism of superoxide dismutase/H(2)O(2)-mediated nitric oxide release from S-nitrosoglutathione--role of glutamate

S-Nitrosoglutathione (GSNO), a physiologically relevant nitric oxide ((*)NO) donor, exhibits antioxidant, anti-ischemic, and antiplatelet properties. The exact mechanism of (*)NO release from GSNO in biological systems has not been determined. Both copper ions and copper-containing enzymes have been shown to catalyze (*)NO release from GSNO. In this study we observed that copper-zinc superoxide dismutase (Cu,ZnSOD) in the presence of H(2)O(2) caused a rapid decomposition of GSNO, forming oxidized glutathione (GSSG) and (*)NO. The cupric ions (Cu(2+)) released from Cu,ZnSOD were bound to the glutamate moiety of GSNO, yielding a 2:1 (GSNO)(2)Cu(2+) complex. Strong chelators of cupric ions, such as histidine and diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid, inhibited the formation of (GSNO)(2)Cu(2+) complex, GSSG, and (*)NO. GSSG alone inhibited Cu(2+)-induced decomposition of GSNO. This effect is attributed to complexation of copper by GSSG. We conclude that binding of copper to GSNO is obligatory for (*)NO release from GSNO; however, the rate of this reaction was considerably slowed due to binding of Cu(2+) by GSSG. The glutamate moiety in GSNO and GSSG controls copper-catalyzed (*)NO release from GSNO. Cu,ZnSOD and H(2)O(2) enhanced peroxidation of unsaturated lipid that was inhibited by GSNO. The antioxidant function of GSNO is related to the sequestering of copper by GSNO and its ability to slowly release (*)NO. Implications of these findings are discussed in relation to GSNO-induced cardioprotection and to neuropathological processes.     

Molecular structure, bioavailability and bioactivity of [Cu(o-phen)2(cnge)](NO3)2.2H2O and [Cu(o-phen)(cnge)(H2O)(NO3)2] complexes

Two Cu(II) complexes with cyanoguanidine (cnge) and o-phenanthroline, [Cu(o-phen)(2)(cnge)](NO(3))(2).2H(2)O (1) and [Cu(o-phen)(cnge)(H(2)O)(NO(3))(2)] (2), have been synthesized using different experimental techniques and characterized by elemental analyses, FTIR, diffuse and UV-vis spectra and EPR and magnetic moment measurements techniques. The crystal structures of both complexes were solved by X-ray diffraction methods. Complex (1) crystallizes in the monoclinic space group C2/c with a=12.621(5), b=31.968(3), c=15.39(1)A, beta=111.68(4) degrees, and Z=8 and complex (2) in the monoclinic space group P2(1)/n with a=10.245(1), b=13.923(2), c=12.391(2)A, beta=98.07(1) degrees, and Z=4. The environments of the copper(II) center are trigonal bipyramidal (TBP) for [Cu(o-phen)(2)(cnge)](2+) and an elongated octahedron for [Cu(o-phen)(cnge)(H(2)O)(NO(3))(2)]. Solution studies have been performed to determine the species distribution. The superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities of both complexes have also been tested in order to determine if these compounds mimic the enzymatic action of the enzyme SOD that protects cells against peroxide radicals.     

In vivo anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and toxicity studies of mixed-ligand Cu(II) complexes of dien and its Schiff dibases with heterocyclic aldehydes and 2-amino-2-thiazoline. Crystal structure of [Cu(dien)(Br)(2a-2tzn)](Br)(H(2)O)

A new series of complexes of the type [Cu(dien)(2a-2tzn)Y(2)] and [Cu(dienXX)(2a-2tzn)Y(2)], where dien=diethylenetriamine and dienXX=Schiff dibase of diethylenetriamine formed with 2-furaldehyde (dienOO), 2-thiophenecarboxaldehyde (dienSS), or pyrrol-2-carboxaldehyde (dienNN); Y=Cl, Br or NO(3); and 2a-2tzn=2-amino-2-thiazoline, were synthesized and their structure established by C, H, N and Cu analysis; IR and electronic spectra; magnetic susceptibility; and molar conductivity. The isolated complexes are monomers, paramagnetic, and electrolytes of types 1:1 or 1:2. In both types of solid state complexes, [Cu(dien)(2a-2tzn)Y(2)] and [Cu(dienXX)(2a-2tzn)Y(2)], dien and its Schiff dibases are bonded to Cu(II) in a tridentate fashion through 3N atoms. The coordination sphere is completed by the endocyclic nitrogen of the thiazoline moiety and by two Cl, Br, or NO(3) groups with distorted octahedral geometry. The proposed structure of these compounds was supported by X-ray analysis of [Cu(dien)(Br)(2a-2tzn)](Br)(H(2)O). The coordination polyhedron around the copper atom can be described as a distorted square pyramid [Cu(dien)(Br)(2a-2tzn)](+). Its basal plane is occupied by the four nitrogen atoms of the dien and thiazoline ligands with Cu-N distances ranging between 1.996(6) and 2.032(3)A, and the axial position is occupied by one of the two bromine atoms (Br1) with a Cu1-Br1 bond distance of 2.782(1)A. The second bromine atom (Br2) is 4.694(2)A from the copper atom, which exists as a discrete anion and is responsible for the cationic nature of the complex. Results regarding toxicity, antitumor, and anti-inflammatory activities of the investigated compounds are promising and allow the selection of a lead compound for further biological studies.     

Syntheses, crystal structures, and oxidative DNA cleavage of some Cu(II) complexes of 5-amino-3-pyridin-2-yl-1,2,4-triazole

Three new monomeric Cu(II) complexes of 5-amino-3-pyridin-2-yl-1,2,4-triazole (Hapt), [Cu(Hapt)(H(2)O)(2)(SO(4))] (1), [Cu(Hapt)(2)(H(2)O)(NO(3))](NO(3)) (2), and [Cu(Hapt)(2)(NCS-N)](NCS).H(2)O (3), have been prepared and characterized by single crystal X-ray diffraction. One distorted [CuN(2)O(2)+O(')] square-pyramidal (1), one distorted [CuN(3)O+N(')+O(')] octahedral (2), and one distorted [CuN(4)+N(')] intermediate between square-pyramidal and trigonal-bipyramidal (3) coordination configuration were found and are suggested to be due to the chelating nature of the ligand, which interacts with Cu(II) through the N4(triazole) and N(pyridine) atoms. Spectral properties of these chelates are in accordance with the X-ray structural data. With ascorbate and H(2)O(2) activation, compound 2 exhibits higher nuclease activity than compound 1. The influence on the DNA cleavage process of different scavengers of reactive oxygen species: dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), tert-butyl alcohol, sodium azide, 2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4-piperidone and superoxide dismutase enzyme (SOD), and of the minor groove binder distamycin, is also studied.     

Low-temperature (180 K) crystal structures of tetrakis-mu-(niflumato)di(aqua)dicopper(II) N,N-dimethylformamide and N,N-dimethylacetamide solvates, their EPR properties, and anticonvulsant activities of these and other ternary binuclear copper(II)niflumate complexes

Two pseudopolymorphs, solvates, of [Cu(2)(II)(niflumate)(4)(H(2)O)(2)] of unknown structure were obtained following solution of [Cu(2)(II)(niflumate)(4)(H(2)O)(2)] in N,N-dimethylacetamide (DMA) or N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF). Low-temperature crystal structures obtained for these solvates revealed that they were ternary aqua DMA and DMF solvates: [Cu(2)(II)(niflumate)(4)(H(2)O)(2)].4DMA and [Cu(2)(II)(niflumate)(4)(H(2)O)(2)].4DMF. Intermolecular hydrogen bonding interactions account for the formation of these stable DMA and DMF solvates. These pseudopolymorphs contain a centrosymmetric binuclear center with Cu-Cu bond distances ranging from 2.6439(7) to 2.6452(9) A; the coordination sphere of Cu(II) is characterized by one long Cu-O (water) bond length of 2.128(3)-2.135(3) A and four short Cu-O (carboxylate) bonds of 1.949(3)-1.977(3) A. Crystal parameters for the DMA pseudopolymorph: a=10.372(1), b=19.625(2), c=17.967(2) A, beta=97.40(1) degrees , V=3626.8(6) A(3); monoclinic system; space group: P2(1)/a and for the DMF pseudopolymorph: a=10.125(2), b=18.647(3), c=19.616(4) A, alpha=74.38(2)(o), beta=88.18(2)(o), gamma=79.28(2)(o), V=3504(1) A(3); triclinic system; space group: P1. EPR spectra of these solids are identical and show strong antiferromagnetic coupling between the copper atoms, similar to the spectrum obtained for [Cu(2)(II)(niflumate)(4)(DMSO)(2)]. The [Cu(2)(II)(niflumate)(4)(H(2)O)(2)], [Cu(2)(II)(niflumate)(4)(H(2)O)(2)].4DMA, [Cu(2)(II)(niflumate)(4)(H(2)O)(2)].4DMF, [Cu(2)(II)(niflumate)(4)(DMF)(2)], and[Cu(2)(II)(niflumate)(4)(DMSO)(2)] evidenced protection against maximal electroshock-induced seizures and Psychomotor seizures at various times after treatment, consistent with the well known antiinflammatory activities of Cu chelates, but failed to protect against Metrazol-induced seizures while evidencing some Rotorod Toxicity consistent with a mechanism of action involving sedative activity.     

Low-temperature (180 K) crystal structure,electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy,and propitious anticonvulsant activities of CuII2(aspirinate)4(DMF)2 and other CuII2(aspirinate)4 chelates

The purpose of this research was to characterize by X-ray crystallography the ternary dimethylformamide (DMF) Cu(II) complex of acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin), in an effort to compare the structure-activity relationships for the anticonvulsant activity of this and other Cu(II)aspirinate chelates. The ternary DMF Cu(II) complex of aspirin was synthesized and crystals grown from a DMF solution were characterized by single crystal X-ray diffraction. This crystalline material was analyzed for anticonvulsant activity in the Maximal Electroshock (MES) Grand Mal and subcutaneous Metrazol (scMET) Petit Mal models of seizure used to detect anticonvulsant activity. The ternary DMF complex was found to be a monomolecular binuclear complex, tetrakis-mu-(acetylsalicylato)bis(dimethylformamido)dicopper(II) [Cu(II)(2)(aspirinate)(4)(DMF)(2)] with the following parameters: monoclinic, space group P2(1)/n, a=12.259 (1), b=10.228 (1), c=16.987 (1) A, beta=92.07 (1) degrees; V=2128.5 (3) A(3); Z=2. The structure was determined at 180 K from 2903 unique reflections (I>1sigma(I)) to the final values of R=0.030 and wR=0.033 using F. This binuclear complex contains four acetylsalicylate bridging ligands which are related to each other in a two by two symmetry center. The four nearest O atoms around each Cu atom form a closely square planar arrangement with the square pyramidal coordination completed by the dimethylformamide oxygen atom occupying an apical position at a distance of 2.154 (1) A. Each Cu atom is displaced towards the DMF ligand by 0.187 A from the plane of the four O atoms. Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectra of [Cu(II)(2)(aspirinate)(4)(DMF)(2)] crystals show a strong antiferromagnetic coupling of the copper atoms, similar to that observed with other binuclear copper(II)salicylate compounds. Studies used to detect anticonvulsant activity revealed that [Cu(II)(2)(aspirinate)(4)(DMF)(2)] was an effective anticonvulsant in the MES model of seizure but ineffective against scMET-induced seizures. The monomolecular ternary binuclear [Cu(II)(2)(aspirinate)(4)(DMF)(2)] complex is more effective in inhibiting MES-induced seizures than other binuclear or mononuclear Cu(II) chelates of aspirin including: binuclear polymeric [Cu(II)(2)(aspirinate)(4)], [Cu(II)(2)(aspirinate)(4)(H(2)O)], which is anticipated to be less polymeric, and monomolecular ternary [Cu(II)(2)(aspirinate)(4)(DMSO)(2)] and [Cu(II)(aspirinate)(2)(Pyr)(2)]. These and other chelates appear to be more effective in the scMET model of seizure than [Cu(II)(2)(aspirinate)(4)(DMF)(2)]. These structure-activity relationships support the potential efficacy of Cu chelates of aspirin in treating epilepsies.     

Uracilato and 5-halouracilato complexes of Cu(II), Zn(II) and Ni(II). X-ray structures of [Cu(uracilato-N(1))(2)(NH(3))(2)].2(H(2)O), [Cu(5-chlorouracilato-N(1))(2)(NH(3))(2)](H(2)O)(2), [Ni(5-chlorouracilato-N(1))(2)(en)(2)].2H(2)O and [Zn(5-chlorouracilato-N(1))(NH(3))(3)].(5-chlorouracilato-N(1)).(H(2)O)

Four new complexes of uracilato and 5-halouracilato with the divalent metal ions Cu(II), Zn(II) and Ni(II) were obtained and structurally characterized. [Cu(uracilato- N(1))(2)(NH(3))(2)].2(H(2)O) (1) and [Cu(5-chlorouracilato-N(1))(2)(NH(3))(2)](H(2)O)(2) (2) complexes present distorted square planar co-ordination geometry around the metal ion. Although an additional axial water molecule is present [Cu(II)-OH(2)=2.89 A (for 1) and 2.52 A (for 2)] in both cases, only in the complex 2 would be considered in the limit of a bond distance. The Zn(II) in [Zn(5-chlorouracilato-N(1))(NH(3))(3)].(5-chlorouracilato-N(1)).(H(2)O) presents a tetrahedral co-ordination with three ammonia molecules and the N(1) of the corresponding uracilato moiety. A non-coordinated uracilato molecule is present as a counterion and a recognition between co-ordinated and free ligands, by means a tandem of H-bonds, should be mentioned. Finally, the complex [Ni(5-chlorouracilato-N(1))(2)(en)(2)] (H(2)O)(2) (where en is ethylenediamine) presents a typical octahedral trans co-ordination with additional hydrogen bonds between 5-chlorouracilato and the NH(2) groups of ethylenediamine units.     

Iron(III)- and copper(II) complexes of an asymmetric, pentadentate salen-like ligand bearing a pendant carboxylate group

The equilibrium and solution structural properties of the iron(III) and copper(II) complexes of an asymmetric salen-like ligand (N,N'-bis(2-hydroxybenzyl)-2,3-diamino-propionic acid, H(3)bhbdpa) bearing a pendant carboxylate group were characterized in aqueous solution by potentiometric, pH-dependent electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) and UV-Vis (UV-Visible) measurements. In the equimolar systems the pentadentate ligand forms very stable, differently protonated mononuclear complexes with both metal ions. In the presence of iron(III) {NH, PhO(-), COO(-)}, {2NH, 2PhO(-), COO(-)} and {2NH, 2PhO(-), COO(-), OH(-)} coordinated complexes are dominant. The EPR titrations reflected the presence of microscopic complex formation pathways, leading to the formation of binding isomers in case of Cu(H(2)bhbdpa)(+), Cu(Hbhbdpa) and Cu(bhbdpa)(-). The {2NH, 2PhO(-)+COO(-)/H(2)O} coordinated Cu(bhbdpa) is the only species between pH 6-11. At twofold excess of metal ion dinuclear complexes were detected with both iron(III) and copper(II). In presence of iron(III) a mu-carboxylato-mu-hydroxo-bridged dinuclear complex (Fe(2)(bhbdpa)(OH)(3)) is formed from Fe(H(2)bhbdpa)(2+) through overlapping proton release processes, providing one of the rare examples for the stabilization of an endogenous carboxylate bridged diiron core in aqueous solution. The complex Cu(2)(bhbdpa)(+) detected in the presence of copper(II) is a paramagnetic (S=1) species with relatively weakly coupled metal ions.     

Synthesis, structure, and nuclease properties of several binary and ternary complexes of copper(II) with norfloxacin and 1,10 phenantroline

Three new binary Cu(II) complexes of norfloxacin have been synthesized and characterized. We also report the synthesis, characterization and X-ray crystallographic structures of a new binary compound, [Cu(HNor)(2)]Cl(2).2H(2)O (2) and two new ternary complexes norfloxacin-copper(II)-phen, [Cu(Nor)(phen)(H(2)O)](NO(3)).3H(2)O (4), and [Cu(HNor)(phen)(NO(3))](NO(3)).3H(2)O (5). The structure of 2 consists of two crystallographically independent cationic monomeric units of [Cu(HNor)(2)](2+), chloride anions, and uncoordinated water molecules. The Cu(II) ion is placed at a center of symmetry and is coordinated to two norfloxacin ligands which are related through the inversion center. The structures of 4 and 5 consist of cationic units ([Cu(Nor)(phen)(H(2)O)](+) for 4 and [Cu(HNor)(phen)(NO(3))](+) for 5), nitrate counteranions, and lattice water molecules that provide crystalline stability through a network of hydrogen-bond interactions. The complexes exhibit a five coordinated motif in a square pyramidal environment around the metal center. The ability of compounds 4 and 5 to cleave DNA has also been studied. Mechanistic studies with different inhibiting reagents reveal that hydroxyl radicals, singlet oxygen, and superoxide radicals are all involved in the DNA scission process mediated by these compounds.     

Synthesis, X-ray crystal structures and biomimetic and anticancer activities of novel copper(II)benzoate complexes incorporating 2-(4'-thiazolyl)benzimidazole (thiabendazole), 2-(2-pyridyl)benzimidazole and 1,10-phenanthroline as chelating nitrogen donor ligands

Cu(BZA)(2)(EtOH)(0.5) (1) was generated by the reaction of copper(II) hydroxide with benzoic acid (BZAH). [Cu(TBZH)(2)(BZA)](BZA).0.5TBZH.H(2)O (2) and [Cu(2-PyBZIMH)(2-PyBZIM)(BZA)].1.66EtOH (3) were obtained when 1 reacted with Thiabendazole (TBZH) and 2-(2-pyridyl)benzimidazole (2-PyBZIMH), respectively. [Cu(BZA)(2)(phen)(H(2)O)] (4) was isolated from the reaction of benzoic acid and 1,10-phenanthroline (phen) with copper(II)acetate dihydrate. Molecular structures of 2, 3 and 4 were determined crystallographically. 2 and 3 are hydrogen bonded dimers and trimers, respectively. The copper centres in complexes 2 and 3 are bis-chelate derivatives that have N(4)O ligation and their geometry is very similar being approximately square-pyramidal. However whereas in complex 2 both TBZH ligands are neutral in 3 one of the 2-PyBZIMH chelators is deprotonated on each copper. The structural results for 4 represent a re-examination of this crystallographically known compound for which no hydrogen atom coordinates have been previously reported. It crystallises as a hydrogen bonded dimmer and is a mono-chelate of phen with each copper centre possessing N(2)O(3) ligation and square pyramidal geometry. The catalase and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities of the four complexes along with those of the known phenanthroline complexes [Cu(mal)(phen)(2)] and [Cu(phendione)(3)](ClO(4))(2) (malH(2)=malonic acid and phendione=1,10-phenanthroline-5,6-dione) were investigated. Complexes 1-4, the metal free ligands and a simple copper(II) salt were assessed for their cancer chemotherapeutic potential against the hepatocellular carcinoma (Hep-G(2)) and kidney adenocarcinoma (A-498) cell lines. TBZH, 2-PyBZIMH and benzoic acid when uncoordinated to a metal centre offer poor chemotherapeutic potential. copper(II) benzoate is significantly more active than the free acid. The bis-chelate derivatives [Cu(TBZH)(2)(BZA)](BZA).0.5TBZH.H(2)O (2) and [Cu(2-PyBZIMH)(2-PyBZIM)(BZA)].1.66EtOH (3) elicit a significant cytotoxic response to the cancer cell lines tested. Replacing TBZH and 2-PyBZIMH with phen to give [Cu(BZA)(2)(phen)(H(2)O)] (4) does not significantly increase the anti-cancer activity.     

Development of novel copper(II) complexes of benzothiazole-N-sulfonamides as protective agents against superoxide anion. Crystal structures of [Cu(N–2-(4-methylbenzothiazole)benzenesulfonamidate)2(py)2] and [Cu(N–2-(6-nitrobenzothiazole)naphthalenesulfonamidate)2(py)2]

Copper(II) ternary complexes based on the novel benzothiazole- N-sulfonamides, HL1 ( N-2-(4-methylbenzothiazole)benzenesulfonamide) and HL2 ( N-2-(6-nitrobenzothiazole)naphthalenesulfonamide) ligands, and pyridine have been synthesized and characterized. Complexes [Cu(L1)(2)(py)(2)] (1). and [Cu(L2)(2)(py)(2)] (2). were chemically characterized and their structures determined by means of single crystal X-ray analysis. In both compounds the Cu(II) ion is coordinated to four N atoms in a nearly square planar arrangement. The Cu-N bond distances are similar to those of Cu(2)Zn(2)SOD. The SOD mimetic activity of the complexes was determined both in vitro and in vivo. For determining the SOD-like activity of the complexes in vivo, we have developed a new method based on the complexes' protective effect on a delta sod1mutant of Saccharomyces cerevisiae against free radicals generated by hydrogen peroxide and menadione as well as free radicals produced in the cellular respiration process. The results have shown that complex 1 presents a protective action against oxidative stress induced by menadione or H(2)O(2) and that both complexes 1 and 2 protect against free radicals generated in cellular respiration.     

Synthesis, crystal structures, in vitro biological evaluation of zinc(II) and bismuth(III) complexes of 2-acetylpyrazine N(4)-phenylthiosemicarbazone

Two metal complexes formulated as [Zn(L)(2)](2)·H(2)O (1) and [Bi(L)(NO(3))(2)(CH(3)OH)] (2), where HL=2-acetylpyrazine N(4)-phenylthiosemicarbazone, have been synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, IR, MS, NMR and single-crystal X-ray diffraction studies. Biological studies, carried out in vitro against selected bacteria and the K562 leukemia cell lines, respectively, have shown that the free ligand and its two complexes may be endowed with important biological properties, especially HL with MIC=3.90 μg/mL against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, the zinc(II) complex 1 with IC(50)=1.0 μM against K562 leukemia cell lines, respectively. The compounds HL and 1 may exert their cytotoxicity activity via induced loss of mitochondria membrane potential (MMP).     

N,N-bis(2-mercaptoethyl)methylamine: a new coligand for Tc-99m labeling of hydrazinonicotinamide peptides

Hydrazinonicotinamide (HYNIC) forms stable coordination complexes with Tc-99m when reacted with Tc(V)oxo species such as Tc-mannitol or other Tc-polyhydric complexes. However, radio-HPLC of [Tc-For-MLFK-HYNIC] labeled via Tc-polyhydric ligands demonstrated multiple radiochemical species each with unique biodistribution patterns. This is likely due to the fact that Tc can bind to the hydrazino moiety, as well as polyhydric ligands, in a variety of coordination geometries. Tridentate ligands, such as bis(mercaptoethyl)methylamine (NS2), may constrain the possible coordination geometries and improve overall stability. To investigate this, we synthesized NS2, converted the [Tc-mannitol-For-MLFK-HYNIC] to the corresponding NS2-containing complex [Tc-NS2-For-MLFK-HYNIC], and compared its infection imaging and biodistribution properties with [Tc-mannitol-For-MLFK-HYNIC]. Conversion to the NS2 complex was confirmed by HPLC which showed a single unique hydrophobic species with retention time greater than the [Tc-mannitol-For-MLFK-HYNIC] complex. Imaging experiments with both preparations were performed in rabbits with E. coli infections in the left thigh. Tissue radioactivity measurements demonstrated that compared to Tc-mannitol-peptide, accumulation of Tc-NS2-peptide was lower in blood, heart, and normal muscle and higher in spleen, infected muscle, and pus (p < 0.01). These results indicate that the Tc-NS2-peptide complex is chemically more homogeneous and exhibits improved infection localization and biodistribution properties. In an effort to model the interactions of the metal-HYNIC core with NS2 and related ligand types, the reactions of [ReCl3(NNC5H4NH)(NHNC5H4N)] and [99TcCl3(NNC5H4NH)(NHNC5H4N)], effective structural analogues for the [M(NNC5H4NH(x))2] core, with NS2, C5H3N-2,6-(CH2SH)2, O(CH2CH2SH)2, and S(CH2CH2SH)2 were investigated and the compounds [M[CH3N(CH2CH2S)2](NNC5H4N)(NHNC5H4N] (M = 99Tc (5a), Re (5b)), [Re[C5H3N-2,6-(CH2S)2](NNC5H4N)(NHNC5H4N)].CH2Cl2.0.5MeOH (7), [Re[SCH2CH2)2O] (NNC5H4N)(NHNC5H4N)] (8), and [Re[(SCH2CH2)2S](NNC5H4NH)(NHNC5H4N)]Cl (9) were isolated. Similarly, the reaction of [ReCl3(NNC5H4NH)(NHNC5H4N)] with the bidentate ligands pyridine-2-methanethiol and 3-(trimethlysilyl)pyridine-2-thiol led to the isolation of [ReCl(C5H4N-2-CH2S) (NNC5H4N)(NHNC5H4N)] (10) and [Re(2-SC5H3N-3-SiMe3)2 (NNC5H4N)(NHNC5H4N)] (11), respectively, while reaction with N-methylimidazole-2-thiol yielded the binuclear complex [Re(OH)Cl(SC3H2N2CH3)2(NNC5H4N)2 (NHNC5H4N)2] (12). The analogous metal-(HYNIC-OH) precursor, [ReCl3[NNC5H3NH(CO2R)] [NHNC5H3N(CO2R)]] (R = H, 13a; R = CH3, 13b) has been prepared and coupled to lysine to provide [RCl3[NNC5H3NH(CONHCH2CH2CH2CH2CH(NH2)CO2H)] [NHNC5H3NH(CONHCH2CH2CH2CH2CH(NH2)CO2H)]].2HCl (14.2HCl), while the reaction of the methyl ester 13b with 2-mercaptopyridine yields [Re(2-SC5H4N)2[NNC5H3N(CO2Me)][NHNC5H3N(CO2Me)]] (15). While the chemical studies confirm the robustness of the M-HYNIC core (M = Tc, Re) and its persistence in ligand substitution reactions at adjacent coordination sites of the metal, the isolation of oligomeric structures and the insolubility of the peptide conjugates of 13, 14, and 15 underscore the difficulty of characterizing these materials on the macroscopic scale, an observation relevant to the persistent concerns with reagent purity and identity on the tracer level.     

Oxidative strand scission of nucleic acids by a multinuclear copper(II) complex

The compound [Cu(2)(II)(D(1))(H(2)O)(2)](ClO(4))(4).2H(2)O [D(1)=binucleating ligand with tris(2-pyridylmethyl)amine (TMPA) moieties linked in the 5-pyridyl position by a -CH(2)CH(2)- bridge] mediated efficient oxidative cleavage of pBR322 plasmid DNA under reducing conditions. A mononuclear analogue, [Cu(TMPA)(H(2)O)](ClO(4))(2), was less effective at linearizing supercoiled (Form I) plasmid DNA as compared to the binuclear complex. A new method for quenching the copper-dependent reactions has been developed to avoid plasmid scission by the binuclear complex and the standard gel loading buffer. EDTA was not sufficient for retarding copper reaction, but diethyldithiocarbamic acid was capable of inhibiting all reactivity. Investigation of oxidative cleavage of double-helical oligonucleotides by [Cu(2)(II)(D(1))(H(2)O)(2)](ClO(4))(4) confirmed the enhanced reactivity of the binuclear over the mononuclear complex and provided mechanistic insights into the nature of the reaction. Cleavage of DNA required both the binuclear complex and a reductant and likely proceeded through an O(2)-derived intermediate that does not include a diffusible hydroxyl radical. The greater efficiency of the binuclear complex relative to the mononuclear analogue is consistent with their relative abilities to activate dioxygen.     

Solution equilibria of copper(II) complexation with N,N'-(2,2'-azanediylbis(ethane-2,1-diyl))dipicolinamide: a bio-distribution and dermal absorption study

The protonation equilibria of a pentadentate ligand, N,N'-(2,2'-azanediylbis(ethane-2,1-diyl))dipicolinamide ([H(2)(5555)-N]) and the complexation of this ligand with Cu(II) Ca(II), Zn(II) and Ni(II) have been studied by pH-potentiometry, (1)H NMR spectroscopy and UV-vis spectrophotometry. (1)H NMR detected the protonation of the pyridyl groups and formation of Cu[H(2)(5555)-N]H species at low pH, while amide group deprotonation at higher pH resulted in the formation of Cu[H(2)(5555)-N]H(-1) and Cu[H(2)(5555)-N]H(-2) species in solution. Potentiometric detection of protonated species was limited by the acidic nature of the pyridyl nitrogen donors. From UV-vis spectroscopy it is suggested that the amide nitrogens are coordinated. This conclusion is supported by Molecular Mechanics calculations. Water-octanol partition coefficients for the Cu(II)-[H(2)(5555)-N] system indicated that although the Cu[H(2)(5555)-N]H(-1) species is largely hydrophilic, approximately 54% of the complex goes into the organic phase. This percentage is able to promote dermal absorption of copper with a calculated penetration rate of 1.92x10(-1)cmh(-1). This was confirmed by dermal absorption studies which illustrate the role of hydrophobicity in promoting percutaneous drug administration.     

Leaf-atmosphere NH(3) exchange of white clover (Trifolium repens L.) in relation to mineral N nutrition and symbiotic N(2) fixation.

Plant-atmosphere NH(3) exchange was studied in white clover (Trifolium repens L. cv. Seminole) growing in nutrient solution containing 0 (N(2) based), 0.5 (low N) or 4.5 (high N) mM NO(3)(-). The aim was to show whether the NH(3) exchange potential is influenced by the proportion of N(2) fixation relative to NO(3)(-) supply. During the treatment, inhibition of N(2) fixation by NO(3)(-) was followed by in situ determination of total nitrogenase activity (TNA), and stomatal NH(3) compensation points (chi(NH(3))) were calculated on the basis of apoplastic NH4(+) concentration ([NH4(+)]) and pH. Whole-plant NH(3) exchange, transpiration and net CO(2) exchange were continuously recorded with a controlled cuvette system. Although shoot total N concentration increased with the level of mineral N application, tissue and apoplastic [NH4(+)] as well as chi(NH(3)) were equal in the three treatments. In NH(3)-free air, net NH(3) emission rates of <1 nmol m(-2) s(-1) were observed in both high-N and N(2)-based plants. When plants were supplied with air containing 40 nmol mol(-1) NH(3), the resulting net NH(3) uptake was higher in plants which acquired N exclusively from symbiotic N(2) fixation, compared to NO(3)(-) grown plants. The results indicate that symbiotic N(2) fixation and mineral N acquisition in white clover are balanced with respect to the NH4(+) pool leading to equal chi(NH(3)) in plants growing with or without NO(3)(-). At atmospheric NH(3) concentrations exceeding chi(NH(3)), the NH(3) uptake rate is controlled by the N demand of the plants.