Synthesis and Characterization of Novel Rhenium(I) Complexes for PDT and PACT

Abstract

In recent studies, rhenium(I) complexes have shown promise to be effective anticancer agents. In particular, rhenium(I) tricarbonyl complexes have demonstrated ability as photodynamic therapy (PDT) and photoactivated chemotherapy (PACT) photosensitizers when coordinated with diimine and phosphine ligands. The phosphine works to labilize the trans-carbonyl of the complex, allowing for release of carbon monoxide which permits another pathway for additional cytotoxicity. The specific complexes in question are Re(CO)3(N-N)(PR3) complexes (where N-N is a substituted phenanthroline and PR3 is a phosphine such as 3,3′,3″-phosphanetriyltris(benzenesulfonic acid) trisodium salt (TPPTS)) have the potential to act as anticancer agents with dual pathways for treatment. The synthesis, characterization, and photophysical properties will be described.