Design of new transition metal complexes with cytostatic properties

An overexpression of the carbohydrate transporters (GLUT) is a known phenomenon (called Wartburg effect) of cancer cells. Therefore, we have investigated carbohydrate-metallocene conjugates as potential cytostatics, which will be preferentially transported into malignant cells. We have prepared a series of functionalized (carbohydrates, heterocycles) titanocene dihalides (chlorides and fluorides) and ferrocenes with high potential towards ovarian cancer cell lines. Titanocenes affected endoplasmatic reticulum by redox stress - a mode of action different in comparison to cisplatin. On the other hand, ferrocene derivatives cumulates preferentially in cytoplasm as was proved by electrochemical measurements. Recently, we have extended the carbohydrate metallocene concept to ruthenium cationic complexes.