Mechanistic studies of the reactions of transition metal ion complexes with biologically relevant molecules

Study of the reactions between transition metal complexes and biologically relevant molecules and cellular structures can contribute to better understanding of many processes important for physiological and pharmacological activity of metal ions. The goal of these project is to study kinetic, thermodynamic and structural properties of the complexes of different metal ions, Pt(II), Pd(II), Pt(IV), Ru(III/II) and Au(III), throughout their interaction with biologically relevant molecules. The obtained result could contribute to: i) more efficient anti-tumor therapy; ii) reduced toxicity of metallo-drugs; and iii) therapy which will overcome the resistance of tumor cells. Proposed project includes synthesis of new complexes, theoretical calculations and studies of the reaction mechanism between complexes and amino acids, peptides, proteins/enzymes, phospholipids, nucleosides and nucleotides. Separately, effects of new transition metal complexes on the structure and properties of biological membranes and on the function of immune cells will be studied. Important part of the project will be training and education of young research workers, as well as promotion of science. We expect that this project, which represent combination of theoretical and experimental research work, will contribute to development of advanced anti-tumor therapy. Furthermore, well trained research workers motivated to stay in the country will be further benefit of this project.