Studies of 3D culture constructions in neuroblastomas for the cellular viability with new copper (II) complexes treatments

Abstract

Copper is the third most abundant transition metal in the biological environment, and it is an essential element for the maintenance of life. Given its very versatile redox capacity among the elements of the first transition series, copper can assume the most different geometric forms of coordination. Consequently, its high reactivity can be controlled in this way. Thus, being an endogenous element whose cells have total regulatory and transport capacity and have a redox activity that can be controlled, copper can be used as a potential drug against cancer cells. This has been done in the last 30 years. The Cerchiaro Group has systematically carried out these modifications in the copper coordination sphere by altering the ligands to form complexes or altering the delicate balance of the metal within the cell to simulate metabolic alterations, pathologies related to oxidative stress, and neurodegenerations. Following our work, this IC project proposes using new copper (II) complexes with plant-derived ligands, which were obtained naturally from plant extracts that were synthesized and characterized in our laboratory in cell viability studies. Neuroblastoma (NB) lines will be used in 3D cell culture. The 3D models will be prepared using a controlled agitation technique in a greenhouse, and the new complexes will be tested for their ability to cause death in the spheroids formed. This proposal is part of the regular research project 2020/14175-2 and composes important knowledge to integrate a phase 2 study of the best complexes with anticancer action and introduce 3D cell culture to the group.(AU)