Exploring the synthesis of Ru(ii)/Ir(iii)/Re(i)/Rh(iii)-based complexes as anticancer metallopharmaceuticals: significance, challenges and future perspective

Abstract

Metal complexes exhibit significant potential in the field of anticancer metallotherapeutics due to their high selectivity toward cancer cells and their effectiveness in targeted drug delivery. This frontier article summarizes recent advances in the synthesis of mono-, bi-, and mixed-metallic Ru(II)/Ir(III)/Re(I)/Rh(III) complexes for anticancer applications. Additionally, various therapeutic approaches and their mechanisms of action in Ru(II)/Ir(III)/Re(I)/Rh(III)-based complexes are discussed. In this study, we provide insights into the contributions of various research groups toward the development of transition metal complexes with promising therapeutic potential. This study also addresses the challenges encountered throughout the designing and application process as well as the future perspectives of these metallopharmaceuticals.