Water-mediated reduction of [Cu(dmp)2(CH3CN)]2+: implications of the structure of a classical complex on its activity as an anticancer drug

The interplay between coordination geometry and reactivity in copper complexes has been widely studied for years. For Cu-II, it is known that the reduction is favored when the geometry is closer to that of the Cu-I state, which is mainly tetrahedral. Conversely, the reduction of Cu-II complexes in the absence of exogenous reducers has been barely addressed. Herein, we report on the ability of a classic Cu-II complex to be partially reduced in acetonitrile solutions containing water, in the absence of external reducers. The role of the structure on the spontaneous reduction is presented by contrasting the geometric features with a related complex, [Cu(phen)(2)(CH3CN)](2+), which is inert towards the redox process mediated by water. The participation of water in the reduction of [Cu(dmp)(2)(CH3CN)](2+) is associated with the production of hydroxyl radicals. This, prompted us to evaluate the use of [Cu(dmp)(2)(CH3CN)](2+) as an anticancer metallodrug, showing an activity stronger than that of [Cu(phen)(2)(CH3CN)](2+) on 2D and 3D models of bone, lung, and breast cancer cell lines. Furthermore, both complexes are more active than cisplatin. The main mechanism of action is the intracellular ROS generation, with a higher production of cytotoxic species by [Cu(dmp)(2)(CH3CN)](2+). Certainly, the performance of [Cu(dmp)(2)(CH3CN)](2+) as an anticancer agent and its reactivity in the solution phase are connected through the geometrical constraints imparted by the dmp ligands.

Automated summary

The study reports the partial reduction of a classic Cu-II complex in acetonitrile solutions containing water without external reducers. The role of structure in the spontaneous reduction process is shown by contrasting with an inert complex. The involvement of water in the reduction is associated with the production of hydroxyl radicals.