Exploration of Xanthine-based transition metal complexes as Anticancer and Cell Therapy agents (EXACT)

Cancer, neoplasm or malignant tumor is a group of diseases characterized by the uncontrolled grow of abnormal cells within an organ or tissue. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), neoplasms are the second cause of death globally. This disorder is a multidimensional problem for individuals, families, communities and health systems, with physical, emotional and economic implications. The number of tumor cases are altogether showing an alarming increase associated with, among other known linked factors, the growth of population and aging. Although prevention and timely quality diagnosis are effective weapons in the fight against cancer, quality treatment is also valuable artillery in such battlefield. The development of effective antitumoral agents is an intense research area, including the use of metal complexes such as the archetypical cisplatin. Hence, the Exploration of Xanthine-based transition metal complexes as Anticancer and Cell Therapy agents (EXACT) is proposed. The desired cytotoxicity is expected to be modulated by the ligand(s) coordinated to metal centers. Here it is proposed that bio-based non-innocent ligands are ideal candidates for achieving active and robust anticancer agents. In particular, the strategy is founded on the use of chelates based on the xanthine scaffold, which is present in naturally occurring compounds such as theophylline, theobromine and caffeine found in tea, cocoa and coffee beans respectively