CYCLOMETALATED Ir3+-COMPLEX FOR PHOTODYNAMIC THERAPY AND NITRIC OXIDE DELIVERY

Abstract

Cancer cells show hypoxia condition, which limits the application of PDT whose effectiveness depends on the amount of the O2 present. To counter this situation, work has been done on molecules and complexes that can release NO which can dilate the blood vessels resulting in an increased blood flow in tumors and thus an increased amount of O2 availability. On the other hand, a high concentration of NO (mM) can also cause apoptosis in the cell. Further continuing this concept, we have tried to make the metal complex [Ir(ppy)2L]PF6, which shows PDT and is fluorescent, and thus can also help in cell imaging. 2-mercapto-5-nitro benzimidazole group attached to the ligand can release NO, which can relieve the hypoxia condition of the cancer cells and can also damage the cell leading to apoptosis.