Metal-based complexes with antiplatelet properties. Αntagonists of the Platelet-Activating Factor receptor (PAFR) and other aggregating agents

Abstract

Metal complexes displaying anti-inflammatory and antithrombotic properties is a promising research area. Development of new and effective anti-inflammatory and antitrombotic agents is necessary to prevent inflammatory assisted diseases, thromboembolc diseases and oxidation. In this Frontiers article we report on coordination and organometallic compounds displaying anti-inflammatory and/or antithrombotic potencies particularly through the inhibition of platelet aggregation. Non-classictargets such as the Platelet-Activating Factor (PAF) and its receptor (PAFR), a phospholipid signaling molecule of the immune system and the most potent lipid mediator of inflammation, along with collagen serve as the target moleules, besides thrombin and ADP (adenosine diphosphate). This article updates over the last 15 years in this area focusing on the great potential of the transition metal complexes as possible therapeutic agents to treat inflammatory assisted diseases along with thromboembolic diseases and oxidation. Metal-based inhibitors of inflammatory mediators could potentially constitute an interesting class of compounds as alternative to the organic analogues currently in use. The results of this study show that this class of compounds merits further research towards the preparation of new metal-based complexes with improved pharmacological profiles.