Next Article in Journal
Unscrambling the Role of Redox-Active Biometals in Dopaminergic Neuronal Death and Promising Metal Chelation-Based Therapy for Parkinson’s Disease
Next Article in Special Issue
Mechanochemical Preparation, Solid-State Characterization, and Antimicrobial Performance of Copper and Silver Nitrate Coordination Polymers with L- and DL-Arginine and Histidine
Previous Article in Journal
The Local Activation of Toll-like Receptor 7 (TLR7) Modulates Colonic Epithelial Barrier Function in Rats
Previous Article in Special Issue
MAPLE Processed Nanostructures for Antimicrobial Coatings
 
 
Font Type:
Arial Georgia Verdana
Font Size:
Aa Aa Aa
Line Spacing:
Column Width:
Background:
Review

Metal Complexes as Promising Matrix Metalloproteinases Regulators

1
Department of Chemistry, Kongju National University, Gongju 32588, Chungcheongnam-do, Republic of Korea
2
Department of Chemistry Education, Kongju National University, Gongju 32588, Chungcheongnam-do, Republic of Korea
*
Authors to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2023, 24(2), 1258; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms24021258
Submission received: 29 November 2022 / Revised: 5 January 2023 / Accepted: 6 January 2023 / Published: 9 January 2023
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Advances in Metal Complexes with Biological Activity)

Abstract

:
Nowadays, cancers and dementia, such as Alzheimer’s disease, are the most fatal causes of death. Many studies tried to understand the pathogenesis of those diseases clearly and develop a promising way to treat the diseases. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) have been reported to be involved in the pathology of cancers and AD through tumor cell movement and amyloid degradation. Therefore, control of the levels and actions of MMPs, especially MMP-2 and MMP-9, is necessary to care for and/or cure cancer and AD. Various molecules have been examined for their potential application as regulators of MMPs expression and activity. Among the molecules, multiple metal complexes have shown advantages, including simple synthesis, less toxicity and specificity toward MMPs in cancer cells or in the brain. In this review, we summarize the recent studies and knowledge of metal complexes (e.g., Pt-, Ru-, Au-, Fe-, Cu-, Ni-, Zn-, and Sn-complexes) targeting MMPs and their potentials for treating and/or caring the most fatal human diseases, cancers and AD.

1. Introduction

1.1. Matrix Metalloproteinases in Cancers, and Alzheimer’s Disease

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are a family of Ca-dependent Zn-containing endopeptidases. The major function of MMPs is degrading extracellular matrix (EM) related to tissue repair/remodeling, development, and morphogenesis [1,2]. Usually, MMPs are in inactive forms by binding of Cys in the N-terminal pro-domain to Zn(II) in the active site [3]. When MMPs are in active forms, the enzymes are related to the pathology of various diseases (e.g., cancers, Alzheimer’s disease (AD), stroke, cardiovascular diseases, and rheumatoid) as presented in Table 1 [4,5,6,7,8].
Among MMPs, MMP-2 and MMP-9 have been reported to be involved in cancer progression and metastasis [9,10]. A large amount of active MMP-2 and MMP-9 was found in tumor tissues [11,12,13]. The activated MMP-2 and MMP-9 could promote tumor cell movement via degrading collagen type IV of the basement membrane [14]. Overexpression of MMP-2 could activate p38-MAPK/ML/SHP27 signaling, resulting in actin polymerization through cell migration [15]. Moreover, MMP-2 and MMP-9 could affect angiogenesis to enhance tumoral growth and development [16].
In addition, various studies revealed that MMP-2 and MMP-9 could affect amyloid-β (Aβ) aggregation and clearance [17,18,19,20,21,22]. MMP-2 and MMP-9 have been demonstrated to degrade soluble Aβ and amyloid plaques into less toxic fragments, possibly leading to the protection of neurons from amyloid toxicity [21,23]. Moreover, the inactivation of MMP-2 and MMP-9 could cause an increase in Aβ level [24]. Particularly, the overexpression of MMP-9 could promote the increase in soluble amyloid precursor protein a (sAPPα) along with a decrease in Aβ oligomers and the improvement of cognitive abilities of AD mice [25]. Moreover, it has been reported that the increase in MMP-9 activity could be related to proteolytic degradation of nerve growth factor at the early stage of AD [26]. The upregulation of MMP-9 could cause anti-Aβ immunotherapy to result in brain hemorrhages, which in turn contribute to the breakdown of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) [27,28,29], while the downregulation of activity and/or expression of MMP-9 could facilitate Aβ elimination across the BBB [30]. In addition, since upregulated of MMP-2 has been observed along with neurofibrillary tangles in neurons, it has been suggested that MMP-2 could stimulate tau and aggregation of hyperphosphorylated tau [31]. Along with MMP-2 and MMP-9, recent research indicated a high level of MMP-13 in the brain of AD patients highlights its implication in AD. Moreover, downregulating the activity of MMP-13 in AD mice could ameliorate amyloid pathology and cognitive deficits [32,33].

1.2. Regulators of Matrix Metalloproteinases

Over the decades, several inhibitors of MMPs have been developed. Many synthetic chemical agents targeting the active site of MMPs have failed to reach clinical trials due to significant dose-limiting musculoskeletal toxicity and/or ineffectiveness [34]. Moreover, the newly invented bio-engineered tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) or antibodies need further in vivo study of biosafety and reproducibility [35].
In nature, the enzymatic activity of MMPs is tightly regulated by the endogenous TIMPs through negative feedback by inhibition of MMPs [36,37]. TIMP-2, TIMP-3, and TIMP-4 could regulate the action of MMP-2, while TIMP-1 and TIMP-3 could regulate that of MMP-9 [38,39]. Usually, TIMPs could inactivate MMPs by (i) chelating Zn(II) from the active site of MMPs and (ii) interacting with the nucleophilic Glu located at the catalytic cleft of MMPs [40,41]. As TIMPs are natural inhibitors of MMPs, using engineered N-terminal TIMPs would be a promising strategy to develop MMP inhibitors [41]. With the help of computational design, some N-terminal of TIMP-2 variants were screened. For example, N-TIMP2WT, N-TIMP2A, N-TIMP2B, N-TIMP2C, and N-TIMP2D exhibited a significant 40–80% inhibition of MMP-2 and MMP-9 activity. However, they have only been tested in model systems to provide vital clues about the effectiveness of the drugs [42].
To date, several strategies have been applied to develop regulators of MMPs. Those synthetic agents mainly focus on reducing the activity of MMPs by binding to (i) Zn(II) binding site, (ii) catalytic [non-Zn(II) binding] domain, and (iii) allosteric site and exosites. First, the regulators contain a Zn-binding group (ZBG), which can coordinate Zn(II) at the active site to interfere with the enzymatic activity [43]. ZBG-based regulators are the first generation of MMPs inhibitors, which are broad-spectrum inhibitors with poor selectivity and risk of side effects [44]. Some primary examples of MMP-2 and MMP-9 inhibitors based on ZBG have (i) hydroxamate (e.g., Batimastat has been shown to inhibit tumor growth and metastasis by regulating the activity of MMPs [45,46] and Cipemastat, a low molecule weight MMP inhibitor, has been shown to reduce tumor growth; Figure 1, top row) [47], (ii) carboxylate (e.g., Tanomastat, an analog of biphenyl non-peptide butanoic acid, has been indicated to against gelatinase A and B, and showed potential in phase I cancer treatment; however, it showed a very poor survival rate against small-cell lung cancer patients in clinical trials; Figure 1, middle row, left) [48], (iii) phosphinate moieties (e.g., cis-ACCP, an inhibitor of MMP-2/9, was found to act as an anti-metastasis drug; Figure 1, middle row, middle) [49], and (iv) thiolate (e.g., SB-3CT, an MMP-2/9 inhibitor, was shown to reduce tumor burden and improve anti-tumor immunity; Figure 1, middle row, right) [50]. Although these molecules have been developed to control the activity of MMPs by interfering Zn(II)-binding of MMPs, they need to reduce the musculoskeletal toxicity for further application [34].
The catalytic domain (non-Zn(II) binding), apart from Zn(II)-binding site, contains other recognition pockets, such as S1′ and S3′ pockets, which are highly selective between MMPs based on their size and depth. S1′ pocket of MMP-2 and MMP-9 are attracting inhibitors with a medium P1′ substituent [51]. For instance, a family of clicked hydroxamates such as α -sulfone and α -tetrahydropyran (Figure 1, bottom row, left) were found with potent inhibition of MMP-2 (with selectivity for MMP-2 over the closely related MMP-9) [52]. Nevertheless, since the flexibility and depth of the S1′ pocket have not been fully understood, there are no perfect MMP-2 or MMP-9 inhibitors developed based on this strategy [51].
Regulators targeting exosites and allosteric sites of MMPs have been also invented. Exosites and allosteric sites refer to the domains remote from the catalytic domain of MMPs, including the hemopexin domain, collagen domain, and pro-peptide domain. The inhibitors could bind to those sites and induce conformational changes or deformation of enzymes. For example, JNJ0966 (Figure 1, bottom row, right) was proposed as a potent allosteric inhibitor of MMP-9 activation by binding to the structural pocket in proximity to the MMP-9 zymogen cleavage site [53]. Some structural-based inhibitory peptides for MMP-2 and MMP-9 were also introduced; 8-amino acid peptides (IS4 and IVS4 peptides that mimic the outer β-strand of Blade IV of the PEX domain of MMP-9) target hemopexin domain of MMP-9 and P713 peptide targets collagen-binding domain of MMP-2 [54,55].
In addition, monoclonal antibodies have been applied as MMP inhibitors. For example, GS-5745 is a highly selective antibody of MMP-9, targeting the residues (Arg162, Glu111, Asp113, and Ile198) near catalytic Zn(II) with no dose-limiting toxicity [56]. GS-5745 has gone into clinical trials (NCT03631836, NCT02864381, NCT02520284, NCT02545504, and NCT01831427) for the treatment of gastric cancer (phase III), colitis, and Crohn’s disease (phase II), solid tumors, rheumatoid arthritis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (phase I). Since the use of antibodies is restricted to intravenous or subcutaneous administration rather than oral administration, those antibody-based treatments may not be the perfect and first option for regulating MMPs in the human body. Therefore, further research should be performed to improve antibody usage and to evaluate biosafety and reproducibility in vivo [35].
Besides the mentioned inhibitors above, metal complexes have been applied to reduce side effects and improve the selectivity of molecules to MMPs. Along with the multiple metal complexes that have anti-tumor ability targeting DNA/RNA or mitochondria and anti-Aβ aggregation ability to reduce the risk of onset and/or progression of cancers and AD [57,58,59,60,61,62,63,64,65,66,67,68,69,70,71], various metal complexes (e.g., Pt-, Ru-, Fe-, Cu-, Au-, Ni-, Zn, Sn-complexes) could be applied as regulators for both expression and enzymatic activity of MMPs. Those metal complexes could be applied as cancer and AD treatments later. Therefore, in this review, we summarize the previously reported metal complexes as regulators for the activity and/or expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9.

2. MMP Regulators–Metal Complexes

Unlike the mentioned MMPs regulators that mainly inhibit the activity of MMPs, metal complexes could decrease in MMPs expression and activity to care for and cure cancers and AD [72,73,74,75,76]. The detailed mechanisms of MMPs regulation by metal complexes have not been fully revealed. Although the mechanisms are varied based on the types of metal ions and ligands, the proposed procedures for the inhibitory activity of metal complexes against MMPs are shown in Figure 2. The metal complexes summarized in this review could regulate the expression and activity of MMP-2 and MMP-9 through (i) direct binding to DNA and MMPs [77,78,79], (ii) generating ROS to damage DNA [80,81,82,83], (iii) activating PKC-δ via NADPH ROS generation to activate p38-MARK [84,85,86], (iv) inactivation of interleukins (IL) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) [87], and (v) suppression of COX-2 and NF-κB signaling [88,89,90].

2.1. Pt Complexes

Pt(II) complexes, including cisplatin and its derivatives, are widely used as anti-cancer agents. Since the first Pt(II) complex as anti-cancer agent, cisplatin, showed side effects and toxicity on normal cells, numerous Pt(II) complexes have been developed to have lower cytotoxicity and stronger anti-tumor activity than cisplatin [91,92,93,94,95]. Moreover, as MMPs are related to the onset and progression of cancers, regulation of MMPs activity and expression by Pt(II) complexes has been suggested as a potent strategy in cancer and AD treatment.

2.1.1. Pt(II) Complexes

A Pt(II) complex, Pt-EtOMeSOphen (Figure 3, top left), has been investigated for its anti-metastatic potential in various neuroblastoma cell lines [SH-SY5Y, SK-N-SH, and SK-N-BE(2)]. After a 24 h treatment of Pt-EtOMeSOphen, both MMP-2 and MMP-9 expressions and secretion were decreased dramatically in those cells [85]. Pt(acac)2(DMS) (Figure 3, top right) was revealed to reduce NHE1 activity, inhibit cell migration and invasion, and decrease expression and activity of MMPs in breast cancer cells (MCF-7) and SH-SY5Y. With a treatment of 0.5 μM of Pt(acac)2(DMS), the expression and activity of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in SH-SY5Y cells were significantly decreased [86].
Retinoic acid-Pt(II) Complex, RT-Pt(II) (Figure 3, bottom left), was investigated as an anti-inflammatory agent, which could regulate the expression of NF-κB signaling pathway and the level of IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, MMP-1, and MMP-13 in synovial fluid of mice [96]. RT-Pt(II) treatment (4 ng/mL) to Rheumatoid synovial cells (MH7A), the expression of NF-κB mRNA was decreased dramatically. Furthermore, the expression of MMP-9 could be regulated via NF-κB inhibition [97]. Moreover, with the treatment of RT-Pt(II) on rats for 21 days (dosed of 2–5 mg/kg), both NF-κB and active MMP-13 levels were decreased. Besides, it has been proposed that downregulating MMP-13 activity through pharmacological inhibition could have therapeutic potential for treating AD [33].
Pt(II) dimetallic square planner complex containing mixed ligands (L-Pt-Py; L=p-phenylenediamine (2-hydroxyltoluene)2; Figure 3, bottom right), confirmed for its ability to suppress MMPs expression and inhibits the growth, invasion, and migration of cancer cells [98]. L-Pt-Py was examined in human lung cancer cells (A549) and MCF-7 at a dose of 10 μM for 24 h, showing a strong decrease in MMP-2 and MMP-9 RNA expression [98].

2.1.2. Pt(IV) Complexes

Compared to Pt(II) complexes, Pt(IV) complexes with octahedral geometry could undergo fewer off-target reactions and side effects with less toxicity [93,99]. A new series of Pt(IV) complexes, such as Ketoprofen (Figure 4, left), was designed for chemotherapeutic and immunotherapeutic effects targeting MMPs, cyclooxygenases (COXs), and programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1). The expression of MMP-9 in A549 cells was significantly reduced after a 24 h treatment with 10 μM of Ketoprofen [88]. Naproxen (Figure 4, right) was designed as a potent inhibitor of both MMP-9 and COXs. The MMP-9 expression in tumor tissues was downregulated with an inhibitory greater than that of oxaliplatin, which could be ascribed to the incorporation of the naproxen ligand [89].

2.2. Ru Complexes

Ru complexes have been proposed as potent anti-cancer agents as well [100]. Compared to Pt complexes, Ru complexes presented multiple advantages; (i) transported by Fe transporters such as transferrin, (ii) high selectivity due to its octahedral geometry, (iii) easy transformation of oxidation states, +2, +3, and +4, and (iv) more favorable ligand exchange kinetics. Moreover, Ru(II) complexes are believed to inhibit the expression and activity of MMP-2 and MMP-9 with low toxicity [101,102,103,104]. Ru ions can be found in two stable oxidation states in physiological conditions, Ru(II) and Ru(III), both of the oxidation states to support a six-coordinate octahedral structure. Nevertheless, they could be coordinated to different geometries by ligands, then could contribute to various biological redox reactions [105,106].

2.2.1. Ru(II) Complexes

[Ru(dip)2(bpy-2-nitroIm)] (Im=imidazole; Figure 5, top left) has been proposed to be an effective anti-cancer agent against breast cancer cells (4T-1) and A549. The complex could significantly decrease MMP-9 gene expression in 4T-1 cells after a 24 h treatment under both normoxic and hypoxic conditions [107]. Meanwhile, [Ru(dip)2(bpy)]2+ was indicated to strongly increase MMP-9 mRNA expression in 4T-1 cells after a 24 h treatment under normoxic conditions, but a strong decrease in hypoxic condition [107].
Two Ru(II) polypyridyl complexes containing 2,2′-bipyridine substituted by a semicarbazone 2-formylopyridine moiety and 4,4′-di(tert-butyl)-2,2′-dpyridyl (Figure 5, top right) or 4,7-diphenyl-1,10-phenanthroline (Figure 5, bottom left) as auxiliary ligands were proved to against the development of metastasis via inhibiting MMPs activity. The cell-associated MMPs activity was investigated by measuring the proteolysis of FS-6. As GM6001 (a broad-spectrum hydroxamate metalloproteinase inhibitor) does, the Ru(II) polypyridyl complexes strongly inhibit the activity of MMPs in A549 cells. Moreover, those complexes presented ca. 20–85 times higher inhibition of MMP-2 over GM6001, while the effectiveness in inhibition of MMP-9 was lower than GM6001 [108]. Ru(ThySMet) (Figure 5, bottom right) was revealed to significantly inhibit the activity of MMP-9 in T4-1 cells by eight folds compared with untreated cells and was 4-folds lower than PD98059 (a MEK inhibitor, which was used as positive control) treatment [90]. Ru(ThySMet) could inhibit the activity of MMP-9, possibly by reducing the transcription of MMP-9 by decreasing the NF-κB expression [109].

2.2.2. Ru(III) Complexes

Under physiological conditions, Ru(III) complexes can be reduced to Ru(II) complexes and still retain their octahedral ligand sets [110]. The anti-cancer activity of Ru(III) complexes depends on the reduction of Ru(III) to Ru(II) [111]. Ru(III) complexes could also mimic Fe metabolisms, enabling them to overcome the high selectivity of transferrin receptors on cancer cells [112]. Thus, various Ru(III) complexes have entered clinical trials in different phases of cancer treatment.
NAMI-A (Figure 6, left) has been revealed to greatly reduce lung metastasis and the formation of solid metastasizing tumors in mice [113]. NAMI-A has a pseudo-octahedral Ru(III) center surrounded by four chloride ligands in the equatorial plane [114]. There were the following multiple perspectives about the anti-cancer mechanism of NAMI-A and its derivatives: (i) interacting with DNA forming the bifunctional intrastrand adducts on double helical DNA [115], (ii) mimicking Fe(III) behaviors to overcome the selective transferrin recognition to the entry of cancer cells [116], (iii) acting as anti-angiogenic agent [117], (iv) binding to collagen of the extracellular matrix and cell surface integrins [112]. Moreover, NAMI-A has been proposed to reduce invadopodia in tumor cells where MMP-9 is preferentially localized in active form and decrease the secretion of MMP-9 [77]. Recently, NAMI-A derivatives containing pyridine, i.e., G94a and G26b (Figure 6), could regulate the transcription of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in MCF-7 cells efficiently. G94a reduced the expression of MMP-2 by 80% and MMP-9 by 70%, whereas G26b reduced the expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 genes by 80%. Particularly, G26b was shown to be more effective in inhibiting the transcription of MMP-2 over NAMI-A [78].
Furthermore, NAMI-A and its derivatives containing pyridine (Ru-N) were also proposed to undergo ligand exchange and covalent binding to the Aβ, leading to the modulation of Aβ aggregation and the formation of high molecular weight aggregates, amorphous, and fibrillary aggregates [118]. Therefore, Ru(III) complexes could be applied to treat AD as well.

2.3. Au Complexes

Cref (Figure 7, top left), an Au monometallic complex, was indicated to act as a regulator of MMP-2 expression. Cref decreases the MMP-2 expression on human renal cancer cells (Caki-1) by about 50% after a 72 h treatment. Cref also showed a small effect in downregulating the expression of MMP-9 in Caki-1 cells [87]. Fin (Figure 7, top right) also could downregulate the expression of MMP-2 on Caki-1 cells but had no influence on MMP-9 expression. Auranofin (Figure 7, bottom left) was revealed for its anti-metastatic ability by downregulating the expression of both MMP-2 and MMP-9 on Caki-1 cells after a 72 h treatment [87]. Titanocene–Au complexes [(η-C5H5)2TiMe(μ-mba)Au(PR3)] (PR3=PPh3: Titanocref and PR3=Pet3: Titanofin; Figure 7, bottom right) were recently investigated as well. Titanocref and Titanofin effectively inhibited the expression of MMP-9 in Caki-1 cells by 90% after a 72 h treatment. Those complexes, however, had no effective inhibiting the expression of MMP-2 [87].

2.4. Fe Complexes

Fe-MIL-101 (Figure 8, left), was developed against the proliferative effect on HeLa, A549, human ovarian cancer cells (SK-OV-3), and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC). It could restrict ovarian tumor growth without significant toxicity [119]. A lower amount of both MMP-2 and MMP-9 was observed in SK-OV-3 and HUVEC cells after a 24 h treatment of Fe-MIL-101. Moreover, Fe-MIL-101 significantly inhibited the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) or conditioned media (CM), which is involved in the upregulation of MMP-2 and MMP-9 expression and activity. Unfortunately, the MMP regulation mechanism of Fe-MIL-101 remains unclear [119]. [Fe(phen)3]2+ (Figure 8, right), a Fe(II) polypyridyl complex with planarity geometry of the ligands in complex, was proposed to be an anti-metastatic agent via regulating MMP-2 and MMP-9. A significant decrease in both MMP-2 and MMP-9 expression with an increase in TIMP-1 was observed in human glioma cells (U87) after a 24 h treatment [84].

2.5. Cu Complexes

Multiple Cu complexes have been evaluated for therapeutic indications, including cancers and AD as well. Cu complexes have been recognized as a limiting factor for the progression of cancer, including growth, angiogenesis, and metastasis via regulation of MMPs activity and expression level [120].
Phenanthroline containing Cu(II) complex, CPT8 (Figure 9, top), could downregulate the expression of MMP-2 in SK-OV-3 cells [121]. [Cu(phen)2(CH3CN)]2+ and [Cu(dmp)2(CH3CN)]2+ (Figure 9, middle row), which have a similar structure to [Cu(phen)2]+, were examined for its anti-cancer activities in 2D and 3D models of human osteosarcoma (MG-63), A549, MCF-7, triple-negative breast adenocarcinoma cells (MDA-MB-231), and colorectal cancer cells (HT-29, LS174T, and Caco-2) [80,122]. Similar to [Cu(phen)2]+, the anti-cancer activity of [Cu(phen)2(CH3CN)]2+ and [Cu(dmp)2(CH3CN)]2+ was attributed to the ROS production by nucleolytic activity of those Cu(II) complexes [80,122]. Otherwise, the anti-cancer activity of the two Cu(II) complexes was also contributed by the inhibition of the NF-κB pathway and MMPs expression. [Cu(phen)2(CH3CN)]2+ could decrease MMP-2 and MMP-9 expression in HT-29 cells significantly [81]. [Cu(dmp)2(CH3CN)]2+, containing methyl substituents in the phen ligand, has a stronger anti-cancer activity than [Cu(phen)2(CH3CN)]2+. [Cu(dmp)2(CH3CN)]2+ inactivated the NF-κB pathway in both monolayer and spheroids, leading to the downregulation of MMP-2 and MMP-9 production in HT-29 cells by 75% and 50%, respectively [80].
[Cu(trp)2] (Figure 9, bottom left) was demonstrated to inhibit metastatic progression in human breast cancer cell lines, MCF-17 and MDA-MB-231, by regulating MMP-2 and MMP-9 expression. The secretion level of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in MDA-MB-231 cells was significantly reduced after incubation with 4 μM of [Cu(trp)2] for 48 h [82]. [Cu(SBCM)2], synthesized with S-benzyldithiocarbazate and 3-acetylcoumarin (Figure 9, bottom right), indicated its safety at low concentrations. Besides, [Cu(SBCM)2] could significantly downregulate the expression of MMP-2 in MDA-MB-231 cells [123].

2.6. Other Metal Complexes

Ni(II) complex composed of 2-formylpyridine selenosemicarbazone, Ni(fpsesc)2 (Figure 10, left), showed different effects on MMPs activity in HeLa, MDA-MB-361, EA.hy 926 cells, and mouse endothelial MS cells. After a 6 h treatment of Ni(fpsesc)2, the activity of MMP-2 was significantly decreased in all three cell lines, while the activity of MMP-9 was upregulated in HeLa and MS cells and downregulated in EA.hy926 cells [83].
Zn(II) complex containing 2-formylpyridine selenosemicarbazone, ZnCl(Hfpsesc) (Figure 10, middle), could lower the level of the active form of MMP-2 in HeLa, MDA-MB-361, and mouse endothelial MS cells, while increasing the MMP-2 activity in human endothelial EA.hy926 cells. Moreover, the activity of MMP-9 was increased significantly in HeLa cells upon treatment of the ZnCl(Hfpsesc) [83].
An Sn(II) complex, [SnC9H11N4SCl] (Figure 10, right), demonstrated its inhibiting ability against MMP-2 activity potentially by (i) binding of Sn(II) complex to MMP-2 by forming a hydrogen bond with Leu83 in the S1 pocket or (ii) replacing Zn(II) in the P1 pocket to form complexation with His120 or His130 and forms a hydrogen bond with His85 [79].

3. Conclusions

As we summarized above, many different metal complexes have been developed, and examined their potent application in treating fatal human diseases, cancers, and AD. Since MMPs are involved in the pathology of those diseases, various molecules have been applied to regulate the expression and activity of MMPs. Particularly, metal complexes targeting MMP-2 and MMP-9 have been reported as effective regulators. As shown in Table 2, the advantages and limitations of metal complexes as regulators of MMPs are summarized. Through this review, we provided the current studies and knowledge of the metal complexes targeting MMPs and their potentials for treating fatal human diseases. This approach could be an important aspect for the care of and treatment cancers and AD by regulating MMPs. Further, less toxic and more effective metal complexes for regulating the expression levels and activity of MMPs should be developed for successful treatments of fatal diseases in the future.

Author Contributions

All authors contributed to the literature search as well as writing and designing the manuscript. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.

Funding

This research was funded by the research grant of the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF) grant funded by the Korea government (MSIT) (2020R1G1A1003993 and 2022R1F1A1074609 (to H.J.L.); 2019R1F1A1059679 (to N.K.)).

Institutional Review Board Statement

Not applicable.

Informed Consent Statement

Not applicable.

Data Availability Statement

Not applicable.

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflict of interest.

References

  1. Choi, H.; Kim, E.; Choi, J.Y.; Park, E.; Lee, H.J. Potent Therapeutic Targets for Treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease: Amyloid Degrading Enzymes. Bull. Korean Chem. Soc. 2021, 42, 1419–1429. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  2. Verma, R.P.; Hansch, C. Matrix Metalloproteinases (MMPs): Chemical-biological Functions and (Q)SARs. Bioorg. Med. Chem. 2007, 15, 2223–2268. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  3. Rosenberg, G.A. Matrix Metalloproteinases and Their Multiple Roles in Neurodegenerative Diseases. Lancet Neurol. 2009, 8, 205–216. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  4. Nagase, H.; Visse, R.; Murphy, G. Structure and Function of Matrix Metalloproteinases and TIMPs. Cardiovasc. Res. 2006, 69, 562–573. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [Green Version]
  5. Bassiouni, W.; Ali, M.A.M.; Schulz, R. Multifunctional Intracellular Matrix Metalloproteinases: Implications in Disease. FEBS J. 2021, 288, 7162–7182. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  6. Huang, H. Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) as a Cancer Biomarker and MMP-9 Biosensors: Recent Advances. Sensors 2018, 18, 3249. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [Green Version]
  7. Mondal, S.; Adhikari, N.; Banerjee, S.; Amin, S.A.; Jha, T. Matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and its inhibitors in cancer: A minireview. Eur. J. Med. Chem. 2020, 194, 112260. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  8. Laronha, H.; Caldeira, J. Structure and Function of Human Matrix Metalloproteinases. Cells 2020, 9, 1076. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  9. Alaseem, A.; Alhazzani, K.; Dondapati, P.; Alobid, S.; Bishayee, A.; Rathinavelu, A. Matrix Metalloproteinases: A Challenging Paradigm of Cancer Management. Semin. Cancer Biol. 2019, 56, 100–115. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  10. Jeleniewicz, W.; Cybulski, M.; Nowakowski, A.; Stenzel-Bembenek, A.; Guz, M.; Marzec-Kotarska, B.; Kotarski, J.; Stepulak, A. MMP-2 mRNA Expression in Ovarian Cancer Tissues Predicts Patients’ Response to Platinum-Taxane Chemotherapy. Anticancer Res. 2019, 39, 1821–1827. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  11. Li, H.; Qiu, Z.; Li, F.; Wang, C. The Relationship between MMP-2 and MMP-9 Expression Levels with Breast Cancer Incidence and Prognosis. Oncol. Lett. 2017, 14, 5865–5870. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed] [Green Version]
  12. Azevedo Martins, J.M.; Rabelo-Santos, S.H.; do Amaral Westin, M.C.; Zeferino, L.C. Tumoral and Stromal Expression of MMP-2, MMP-9, MMP-14, TIMP-1, TIMP-2, and VEGF-A in Cervical Cancer Patient Survival: A Competing Risk Analysis. BMC Cancer 2020, 20, 660. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  13. Turpeenniemi-Hujanen, T. Gelatinases (MMP-2 and -9) and Their Natural Inhibitors as Prognostic Indicators in Solid Cancers. Biochimie 2005, 87, 287–297. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  14. Deryugina, E.I.; Quigley, J.P. Matrix Metalloproteinases and Tumor Metastasis. Cancer Metastasis Rev. 2006, 25, 9–34. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  15. Das, K.; Prasad, R.; Ansari, S.A.; Roy, A.; Mukherjee, A.; Sen, P. Matrix Metalloproteinase-2: A Key Regulator in Coagulation Proteases Mediated Human Breast Cancer Progression through Autocrine Signaling. Biomed. Pharmacother. 2018, 105, 395–406. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  16. Quintero-Fabian, S.; Arreola, R.; Becerril-Villanueva, E.; Torres-Romero, J.C.; Arana-Argaez, V.; Lara-Riegos, J.; Ramirez-Camacho, M.A.; Alvarez-Sanchez, M.E. Role of Matrix Metalloproteinases in Angiogenesis and Cancer. Fornt. Oncol. 2019, 9, 1370. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [Green Version]
  17. Lorenzl, S.; Albers, D.S.; LeWitt, P.A.; Chirichigno, J.W.; Hilgenberg, S.L.; Cudkowicz, M.E.; Beal, M.F. Tissue Inhibitors of Matrix Metalloproteinases are Elevated in Cerebrospinal Fluid of Neurodegenerative Diseases. J. Neurol. Sci. 2003, 207, 71–76. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  18. Horstmann, S.; Budig, L.; Gardner, H.; Koziol, J.; Deuschle, M.; Schilling, C.; Wagner, S. Matrix Metalloproteinases in Peripheral Blood and Cerebrospinal Fluid in Patients with Alzheimer’s Disease. Int. Psychogeriatr. 2010, 22, 966–972. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  19. Liao, M.C.; Van Nostrand, W.E. Degradation of Soluble and Fibrillar Amyloid β-protein by matrix metalloproteinase (MT1-MMP) In Vitro. Biochemistry 2010, 49, 1127–1136. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [Green Version]
  20. Yan, P.; Hu, X.; Song, H.; Yin, K.; Bateman, R.J.; Cirrito, J.R.; Xiao, Q.; Hsu, F.F.; Turk, J.W.; Xu, J.; et al. Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 Degrades Amyloid-β fibrils In Vitro and Compact Plaques In Situ. J. Biol. Chem. 2006, 281, 24566–24574. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  21. Hernandez-Guillamon, M.; Mawhirt, S.; Blais, S.; Montaner, J.; Neubert, T.A.; Rostagno, A.; Ghiso, J. Sequential Amyloid-β Degradation by the Matrix Metalloproteases MMP-2 and MMP-9. J. Biol. Chem. 2015, 290, 15078–15091. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [Green Version]
  22. Lanza, V.; Bellia, F.; Rizzarelli, E. An Inorganic Overview of Natural Aβ Fragments: Copper(II) and Zinc(II)-mediated Pathways. Coord. Chem. Rev. 2018, 369, 1–14. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  23. Py, N.A.; Bonnet, A.E.; Bernard, A.; Marchalant, Y.; Charrat, E.; Checler, F.; Khrestchatisky, M.; Baranger, K.; Rivera, S. Differential Spatio-temporal Regulation of MMPs in the 5xFAD Mouse Model of Alzheimer’s Disease: Evidence for a Pro-Amyloidogenic Role of MT1-MMP. Fornt. Aging Neurosci. 2014, 6, 247. [Google Scholar]
  24. Yin, K.J.; Cirrito, J.R.; Yan, P.; Hu, X.; Xiao, Q.; Pan, X.; Bateman, R.; Song, H.; Hsu, F.F.; Turk, J.; et al. Matrix Metalloproteinases Expressed by Astrocytes Mediate Extracellular Amyloid-β Peptide Catabolism. J. Neurosci. 2006, 26, 10939–10948. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed] [Green Version]
  25. Fragkouli, A.; Tsilibary, E.C.; Tzinia, A.K. Neuroprotective role of MMP-9 Overexpression in the Brain of Alzheimer’s 5xFAD Mice. Neurobiol. Dis. 2014, 70, 179–189. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  26. Bruno, M.A.; Mufson, E.J.; Wuu, J.; Cuello, A.C. Increased Matrix Metalloproteinase 9 Activity in Mild Cognitive Impairment. J. Neuropathol. Exp. Neurol. 2009, 68, 1309–1318. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  27. Wilcock, D.M.; Morgan, D.; Gordon, M.N.; Taylor, T.L.; Ridnour, L.A.; Wink, D.A.; Colton, C.A. Activation of Matrix Metalloproteinases following Anti-Aβ Immunotherapy; Implications for Microhemorrhage Occurrence. J. Neuroinflam. 2011, 8, 115. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [Green Version]
  28. Bell, R.D.; Winkler, E.A.; Singh, I.; Sagare, A.P.; Deane, R.; Wu, Z.; Holtzman, D.M.; Betsholtz, C.; Armulik, A.; Sallstrom, J.; et al. Apolipoprotein E Controls Cerebrovascular Integrity via Cyclophilin A. Nature 2012, 485, 512–516. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [Green Version]
  29. Montaner, J.; Ramiro, L.; Simats, A.; Hernandez-Guillamon, M.; Delgado, P.; Bustamante, A.; Rosell, A. Matrix Metalloproteinases and ADAMs in Stroke. Cell. Mol. Life Sci. 2019, 76, 3117–3140. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  30. Ringland, C.; Schweig, J.E.; Eisenbaum, M.; Paris, D.; Ait-Ghezala, G.; Mullan, M.; Crawford, F.; Abdullah, L.; Bachmeier, C. MMP9 Modulation Improves Specific Neurobehavioral Deficits in a Mouse Model of Alzheimer’s Disease. BMC Neurosci. 2021, 22, 39. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  31. Terni, B.; Ferrer, I. Abnormal Expression and Distribution of MMP2 at Initial Stages of Alzheimer’s Disease-related Pathology. J. Alzheimer’s Dis. 2015, 46, 461–469. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  32. Paumier, J.M.; Thinakaran, G. Matrix Metalloproteinase 13, a New Target for Therapy in Alzheimer’s Disease. Genes Dis. 2019, 6, 1–2. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  33. Zhu, B.L.; Long, Y.; Luo, W.; Yan, Z.; Lai, Y.J.; Zhao, L.G.; Zhou, W.H.; Wang, Y.J.; Shen, L.L.; Liu, L.; et al. MMP13 Inhibition Rescues Cognitive Decline in Alzheimer Transgenic Mice via BACE1 Regulation. Brain 2019, 142, 176–192. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  34. Skiles, J.W.; Gonnella, N.C.; Jeng, A.Y. The Design, Structure, and Clinical Update of Small Molecular Weight Matrix Metalloproteinase Inhibitors. Curr. Med. Chem. 2004, 11, 2911–2977. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  35. Vandenbroucke, R.E.; Libert, C. Is There New Hope for Therapeutic Matrix Mmetalloproteinase Inhibition? Nat. Rev. Drug Discov. 2014, 13, 904–927. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  36. Arpino, V.; Brock, M.; Gill, S.E. The Role of TIMPs in Regulation of Extracellular Matrix Proteolysis. Matrix Biol. 2015, 44–46, 247–254. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  37. Karadeniz, F.; Lee, S.-G.; Oh, J.H.; Kim, J.-A.; Kong, C.-S. Inhibition of MMP-2 and MMP-9 activities by solvent-partitioned Sargassum horneri extracts. Fish. Aquat. Sci. 2018, 21, 16. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [Green Version]
  38. Cui, N.; Hu, M.; Khalil, R.A. Biochemical and Biological Attributes of Matrix Metalloproteinases. Prog. Mol. Biol. Transl. Sci. 2017, 147, 1–73. [Google Scholar]
  39. Brew, K.; Nagase, H. The Tissue Inhibitors of Metalloproteinases (TIMPs): An Ancient Family with Structural and Functional Diversity. Biochem. Biophys. Acta 2010, 1803, 55–71. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [Green Version]
  40. Nagase, H.; Murphy, G. Tailoring timps for selective metalloproteinase inhibition. In The Cancer Degradome; Edwards, D., Høyer-Hansen, G., Blasi, F., Sloane, B.F., Eds.; Springer: New York, NY, USA, 2008; pp. 787–810. [Google Scholar]
  41. Sagi, I.; Talmi-Frank, D.; Arkadash, V.; Papo, N.; Mohan, V. Matrix Metalloproteinase Protein Inhibitors: Highlighting a New Beginning for Metalloproteinases in Medicine. Met. Med. 2016, 3, 31–47. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [Green Version]
  42. Arkadash, V.; Yosef, G.; Shirian, J.; Cohen, I.; Horev, Y.; Grossman, M.; Sagi, I.; Radisky, E.S.; Shifman, J.M.; Papo, N. Development of High Affinity and High Specificity Inhibitors of Matrix Metalloproteinase 14 through Computational Design and Directed Evolution. J. Biol. Chem. 2017, 292, 3481–3495. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed] [Green Version]
  43. Baranger, K.; Rivera, S.; Liechti, F.D.; Grandgirard, D.; Bigas, J.; Seco, J.; Tarrago, T.; Leib, S.L.; Khrestchatisky, M. Endogenous and Synthetic MMP Inhibitors in CNS Physiopathology. Prog. Brain Res. 2014, 214, 313–351. [Google Scholar] [PubMed]
  44. Rouanet-Mehouas, C.; Czarny, B.; Beau, F.; Cassar-Lajeunesse, E.; Stura, E.A.; Dive, V.; Devel, L. Zinc-Metalloproteinase Inhibitors: Evaluation of the Complex Role Played by the Zinc-Binding Group on Potency and Selectivity. J. Med. Chem. 2017, 60, 403–414. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  45. Prontera, C.; Mariani, B.; Rossi, C.; Poggi, A.; Rotilio, D. Inhibition of Gelatinase A (MMP-2) by Batimastat and Captopril Reduces Tumor Growth and Lung Metastases in Mice Bearing Lewis Lung Carcinoma. Int. J. Cancer Res. 1999, 81, 761–766. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  46. Wylie, S.; MacDonald, I.C.; Varghese, H.J.; Schmidt, E.E.; Morris, V.L.; Groom, A.C.; Chambers, A.F. The Matrix Metalloproteinase Inhibitor Batimastat Inhibits Angiogenesis in Liver Metastases of B16F1 Melanoma Cells. Clin. Exp. Metastasis 1999, 17, 111–117. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  47. Lein, M.; Jung, K.; Ortel, B.; Stephan, C.; Rothaug, W.; Juchem, R.; Johannsen, M.; Deger, S.; Schnorr, D.; Loening, S.; et al. The New Synthetic Matrix Metalloproteinase Inhibitor (Roche 28-2653) Reduces Tumor Growth and Prolongs Survival in a Prostate Cancer Standard Rat Model. Oncogene 2002, 21, 2089–2096. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [Green Version]
  48. Gatto, C.; Rieppi, M.; Borsotti, P.; Innocenti, S.; Ceruti, R.; Drudis, T.; Scanziani, E.; Casazza, A.M.; Taraboletti, G.; Giavazzi, R. BAY 12-9566, a Novel Inhibitor of Matrix Metalloproteinases with Antiangiogenic Activity. Clin. Cancer Res. 1999, 5, 3603–3607. [Google Scholar]
  49. Hoffman, A.; Qadri, B.; Frant, J.; Katz, Y.; Bhusare, S.R.; Breuer, E.; Hadar, R.; Reich, R. Carbamoylphosphonate Matrix Metalloproteinase Inhibitors 6: Cis-2-aminocyclohexylcarbamoylphosphonic Acid, A Novel Orally Active Antimetastatic Matrix Metalloproteinase-2 Selective Inhibitor-Synthesis and Pharmacodynamic and Pharmacokinetic Analysis. J. Med. Chem. 2008, 51, 1406–1414. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  50. Ye, Y.; Kuang, X.; Xie, Z.; Liang, L.; Zhang, Z.; Zhang, Y.; Ma, F.; Gao, Q.; Chang, R.; Lee, H.H.; et al. Small-molecule MMP2/MMP9 Inhibitor SB-3CT Modulates Tumor Immune Surveillance by Regulating PD-L1. Genome Med. 2020, 12, 83. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  51. Fabre, B.; Ramos, A.; de Pascual-Teresa, B. Targeting Matrix Metalloproteinases: Exploring the Dynamics of the s1’ Pocket in the Design of Selective, Small Molecule Inhibitors. J. Med. Chem. 2014, 57, 10205–10219. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  52. Fabre, B.; Filipiak, K.; Zapico, J.M.; Diaz, N.; Carbajo, R.J.; Schott, A.K.; Martinez-Alcazar, M.P.; Suarez, D.; Pineda-Lucena, A.; Ramos, A.; et al. Progress towards Water-soluble Triazole-based Selective MMP-2 Inhibitors. Org. Biomol. Chem. 2013, 11, 6623–6641. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  53. Scannevin, R.H.; Alexander, R.; Haarlander, T.M.; Burke, S.L.; Singer, M.; Huo, C.; Zhang, Y.M.; Maguire, D.; Spurlino, J.; Deckman, I.; et al. Discovery of a Highly Selective Chemical Inhibitor of Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) That Allosterically Inhibits Zymogen Activation. J. Biol. Chem. 2017, 292, 17963–17974. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [Green Version]
  54. Dufour, A.; Zucker, S.; Sampson, N.S.; Kuscu, C.; Cao, J. Role of Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 Dimers in Cell Migration: Design of Inhibitory Peptides. J. Biol. Chem. 2010, 285, 35944–35956. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  55. Xu, X.; Chen, Z.; Wang, Y.; Bonewald, L.; Steffensen, B. Inhibition of MMP-2 Gelatinolysis by Targeting Exodomain-substrate Interactions. Biochem. J. 2007, 406, 147–155. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed] [Green Version]
  56. Shah, M.A.; Starodub, A.; Sharma, S.; Berlin, J.; Patel, M.; Wainberg, Z.A.; Chaves, J.; Gordon, M.; Windsor, K.; Brachmann, C.B.; et al. Andecaliximab/GS-5745 Alone and Combined with mFOLFOX6 in Advanced Gastric and Gastroesophageal Junction Adenocarcinoma: Results from a Phase I Study. Clin. Cancer Res. 2018, 24, 3829–3837. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed] [Green Version]
  57. Manna, S.; Florio, D.; Iacobucci, I.; Napolitano, F.; Benedictis, I.; Malfitano, A.M.; Monti, M.; Ravera, M.; Gabano, E.; Marasco, D. A Comparative Study of the Effects of Platinum (II) Complexes on beta-Amyloid Aggregation: Potential Neurodrug Applications. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2021, 22, 3015. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  58. La Manna, S.; Leone, M.; Iacobucci, I.; Annuziata, A.; Di Natale, C.; Lagreca, E.; Malfitano, A.M.; Ruffo, F.; Merlino, A.; Monti, M.; et al. Glucosyl Platinum(II) Complexes Inhibit Aggregation of the C-Terminal Region of the Abeta Peptide. Inorg. Chem. 2022, 61, 3540–3552. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  59. Florio, D.; Iacobucci, I.; Ferraro, G.; Mansour, A.M.; Morelli, G.; Monti, M.; Merlino, A.; Marasco, D. Role of the Metal Center in the Modulation of the Aggregation Process of Amyloid Model Systems by Square Planar Complexes Bearing 2-(2’-pyridyl)benzimidazole Ligands. Pharmaceuticals 2019, 12, 154. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [Green Version]
  60. Florio, D.; Cuomo, M.; Iacobucci, I.; Ferraro, G.; Mansour, A.M.; Monti, M.; Merlino, A.; Marasco, D. Modulation of Amyloidogenic Peptide Aggregation by Photoactivatable CO-Releasing Ruthenium(II) Complexes. Pharmaceuticals 2020, 13, 171. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  61. Ma, X.; Lu, J.; Yang, P.; Huang, B.; Li, R.; Ye, R. Synthesis, Characterization and Antitumor Mechanism Investigation of Heterometallic Ru(II)-Re(I) Complexes. Front. Chem. 2022, 10, 890925. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  62. Lu, J.J.; Ma, X.R.; Xie, K.; Yang, P.X.; Li, R.T.; Ye, R.R. Novel Heterobimetallic Ir(III)-Re(I) Complexes: Design, Synthesis and Antitumor Mechanism Investigation. Dalton Trans. 2022, 51, 7907–7917. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  63. Yu, B.; Liu, Y.; Peng, X.; Hua, S.; Zhou, G.; Yan, K.; Liu, Y. Synthesis, Characterization, and Antitumor Properties of Au(I)-Thiourea Complexes. Metallomics 2020, 12, 104–113. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  64. Li, Y.; Liu, B.; Xu, C.X.; He, L.; Wan, Y.C.; Ji, L.N.; Mao, Z.W. Mitochondria-targeted Phosphorescent Cyclometalated Iridium(III) Complexes: Synthesis, Characterization, and Anticancer Properties. J. Biol. Inorg. Chem. 2020, 25, 597–607. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  65. Ge, X.; Chen, S.; Liu, X.; Wang, Q.; Gao, L.; Zhao, C.; Zhang, L.; Shao, M.; Yuan, X.A.; Tian, L.; et al. Ferrocene-Appended Iridium(III) Complexes: Configuration Regulation, Anticancer Application, and Mechanism Research. Inorg. Chem. 2019, 58, 14175–14184. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  66. Ma, X.; Lu, J.; Yang, P.; Zhang, Z.; Huang, B.; Li, R.; Ye, R. 8-Hydroxyquinoline-modified Ruthenium(II) Polypyridyl Complexes for JMJD Inhibition and Photodynamic Antitumor therapy. Dalton Trans. 2022, 51, 13902–13909. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  67. Wang, Y.; Li, Y.; Chen, J.; Liu, H.; Zhou, Y.; Huang, C.; Liang, L.; Liu, Y.; Wang, X. Anticancer Effect Evaluation of Iridium(III) Complexes Targeting Mitochondria and Endoplasmic Reticulum. J. Inorg. Biochem. 2023, 238, 112054. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  68. Chen, B.B.; Pan, N.L.; Liao, J.X.; Huang, M.Y.; Jiang, D.C.; Wang, J.J.; Qiu, H.J.; Chen, J.X.; Li, L.; Sun, J. Cyclometalated Iridium(III) Complexes As Mitochondria-targeted Anticancer and Antibacterial Agents to Induce Both Autophagy and Apoptosis. J. Inorg. Biochem. 2021, 219, 111450. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  69. Cai, D.H.; Chen, B.H.; Liu, Q.Y.; Le, X.Y.; He, L. Synthesis, Structural Studies, Interaction with DNA/HSA and Antitumor Evaluation of New Cu(II) Complexes Containing 2-(1H-imidazol-2-yl)pyridine and Amino Acids. Dalton Trans. 2022, 51, 16574–16586. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  70. Jiang, G.B.; Zhang, W.Y.; He, M.; Gu, Y.Y.; Bai, L.; Wang, Y.J.; Yi, Q.Y.; Du, F. Systematic Evaluation of the Antitumor Activity of Three Ruthenium Polypyridyl Complexes. J. Inorg. Biochem. 2021, 225, 111616. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  71. Hao, J.; Zhang, H.; Tian, L.; Yang, L.; Zhou, Y.; Zhang, Y.; Liu, Y.; Xing, D. Evaluation of Anticancer Effects In Vitro of New Iridium(III) Complexes Targeting the Mitochondria. J. Inorg. Biochem. 2021, 221, 111465. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  72. Maikoo, S.; Makayane, D.; Booysen, I.N.; Ngubane, P.; Khathi, A. Ruthenium Compounds as Potential Therapeutic Agents for Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. Eur. J. Med. Chem. 2021, 213, 113064. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  73. Gong, G.; Du, W.; Xu, J.; Huang, X.; Yin, G. Regulation of Heteronuclear Pt-Ru Complexes on the Fibril Formation and Cytotoxicity of Human Islet Amyloid Polypeptide. J. Inorg. Biochem. 2018, 189, 7–16. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  74. Lee, T.Y.; Chei, W.S.; Ju, H.; Lee, M.S.; Lee, J.W.; Suh, J. A Co(III) Complex Cleaving Soluble Oligomers of h-IAPP in the Presence of Polymeric Aggregates of h-IAPP. Bioorg. Med. Chem. Lett. 2012, 22, 5689–5693. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  75. Gong, G.; Wang, W.; Du, W. Binuclear Ruthenium Complexes Inhibit the Fibril Formation of Human Islet Amyloid Polypeptide. RSC Adv. 2017, 7, 18512–18522. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [Green Version]
  76. Yang, Y.; Wang, Q.; Luo, J.; Jiang, Y.; Zhou, R.; Tong, S.; Wang, Z.; Tong, Q. Superoxide Dismutase Mimic, MnTE-2-PyP Enhances Rectal Anastomotic Strength in Rats after Preoperative Chemoradiotherapy. Oxid. Med. Cell. Longev. 2020, 2020, 3509859. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [Green Version]
  77. Pacor, S.; Zorzet, S.; Cocchietto, M.; Bacac, M.; Vadori, M.; Turrin, C.; Gava, B.; Castellarin, A.; Sava, G. Intratumoral NAMI-A Treatment Triggers Metastasis Reduction, Which Correlates to CD44 Regulation and Tumor Infiltrating Lymphocyte Recruitment. J. Pharmacol. Exp. Ther. 2004, 310, 737–744. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [Green Version]
  78. Gu, L.; Li, X.; Ran, Q.; Kang, C.; Lee, C.; Shen, J. Antimetastatic Activity of Novel Ruthenium(III) Pyridine Complexes. Cancer Med. 2016, 5, 2850–2860. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  79. Wu, J.; Yang, T.; Wang, X.; Li, W.; Pang, M.; Sun, H.; Liang, H.; Yang, F. Development of a Multi-target Anticancer Sn(II) Pyridine-2-carboxaldehyde Thiosemicarbazone Complex. Dalton Trans. 2021, 50, 10909–10921. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  80. Ruiz, M.C.; Perelmulter, K.; Levin, P.; Romo, A.I.B.; Lemus, L.; Fogolin, M.B.; Leon, I.E.; Di Virgilio, A.L. Antiproliferative Activity of Two Copper(II) Complexes on Colorectal Cancer Cell Models: Impact on ROS Production, Apoptosis Induction and NF-κB inhibition. Eur. J. Pharm. Sci. 2022, 169, 106092. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  81. Levín, P.; Ruiz, M.C.; Romo, A.I.B.; Nascimento, O.R.; Di Virgilio, A.L.; Oliver, A.G.; Ayala, A.P.; Diógenes, I.C.N.; León, I.E.; Lemus, L. Water-mediated Reduction of [Cu(dmp)2(CH3CN)]2+: Implications of the Structure of a Classical Complex on Its Activity as an Anticancer Drug. Inorg. Chem. Front. 2021, 8, 3238–3252. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  82. Balsa, L.M.; Ruiz, M.C.; Santa Maria de la Parra, L.; Baran, E.J.; Leon, I.E. Anticancer and Antimetastatic Activity of Copper(II)-tropolone Complex Against Human Breast Cancer Cells, Breast Multicellular Spheroids and Mammospheres. J. Inorg. Biochem. 2020, 204, 110975. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  83. Zec, M.; Srdic-Rajic, T.; Konic-Ristic, A.; Todorovic, T.; Andjelkovic, K.; Filipovic-Ljeskovic, I.; Radulovic, S. Anti-metastatic and Anti-angiogenic Properties of Potential New Anti-cancer Drugs Based on Metal Complexes of Selenosemicarbazones. Anti-Cancer Agents Med. Chem. 2012, 12, 1071–1080. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  84. Lin, H.; Wang, Y.; Lai, H.; Li, X.; Chen, T. Iron(II)-Polypyridyl Complexes Inhibit the Growth of Glioblastoma Tumor and Enhance TRAIL-Induced Cell Apoptosis. Chem. Asian J. 2018, 13, 2730–2738. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  85. Stefano, E.; Muscella, A.; Benedetti, M.; De Castro, F.; Fanizzi, F.P.; Marsigliante, S. Antitumor and Antimigration Effects of a New Pt Compound on Neuroblastoma Cells. Biochem. Pharmacol. 2022, 202, 115124. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  86. Muscella, A.; Vetrugno, C.; Calabriso, N.; Cossa, L.G.; De Pascali, S.A.; Fanizzi, F.P.; Marsigliante, S. [Pt(O,O’-acac)(γ-acac)(DMS)] Alters SH-SY5Y Cell Migration and Invasion by the Inhibition of Na+/H+ Exchanger Isoform 1 Occurring through a PKC-ε/ERK/mTOR Pathway. PLoS ONE 2014, 9, e112186. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed] [Green Version]
  87. Elie, B.T.; Fernandez-Gallardo, J.; Curado, N.; Cornejo, M.A.; Ramos, J.W.; Contel, M. Bimetallic Titanocene-gold Phosphane Complexes Inhibit Invasion, Metastasis, and Angiogenesis-associated Signaling Molecules in Renal Cancer. Eur. J. Med. Chem. 2019, 161, 310–322. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  88. Li, Z.; Wang, Q.; Li, L.; Chen, Y.; Cui, J.; Liu, M.; Zhang, N.; Liu, Z.; Han, J.; Wang, Z. Ketoprofen and Loxoprofen Platinum(IV) Complexes Displaying Antimetastatic Activities by Inducing DNA Damage, Inflammation Suppression, and Enhanced Immune Response. J. Med. Chem. 2021, 64, 17920–17935. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  89. Chen, Y.; Wang, Q.; Li, Z.; Liu, Z.; Zhao, Y.; Zhang, J.; Liu, M.; Wang, Z.; Li, D.; Han, J. Naproxen Platinum(IV) Hybrids Inhibiting Cycloxygenases and Matrix Metalloproteinases and Causing DNA Damage: Synthesis and Biological Evaluation as Antitumor Agents In Vitro and In Vivo. Dalton Trans. 2020, 49, 5192–5204. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  90. Becceneri, A.B.; Fuzer, A.M.; Plutin, A.M.; Batista, A.A.; Lelièvre, S.A.; Cominetti, M.R. Three-dimensional Cell Culture Models for Metallodrug Testing: Induction of Apoptosis and Phenotypic Reversion of Breast Cancer Cells by the trans-[Ru(PPh3)2(N,N-dimethyl-N-thiophenylthioureato-k2O,S)(bipy)]PF6 Complex. Inorg. Chem. Front. 2020, 7, 2909–2919. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  91. Dasari, S.; Tchounwou, P.B. Cisplatin in Cancer Therapy: Molecular Mechanisms of Action. Eur. J. Pharmacol. 2014, 740, 364–378. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [Green Version]
  92. Li, C.; Xu, F.; Zhao, Y.; Zheng, W.; Zeng, W.; Luo, Q.; Wang, Z.; Wu, K.; Du, J.; Wang, F. Platinum(II) Terpyridine Anticancer Complexes Possessing Multiple Mode of DNA Interaction and EGFR Inhibiting Activity. Front. Chem. 2020, 8, 210. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  93. Ravera, M.; Gabano, E.; McGlinchey, M.J.; Osella, D. A View on Multi-action Pt(IV) Antitumor Prodrugs. Inorganica Chim. Acta 2019, 492, 32–47. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  94. Kasparkova, J.; Kostrhunova, H.; Novohradsky, V.; Logvinov, A.C.; Temnov, V.V.; Borisova, N.E.; Podrugina, T.A.; Markova, L.; Starha, P.; Nazarov, A.A.; et al. Novel cis-Pt(II) Complexes with Alkylpyrazole Ligands: Synthesis, Characterization, and Unusual Mode of Anticancer Action. Bioinorg. Chem. Appl. 2022, 2022, 1717200. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  95. Mitra, I.; Mukherjee, S.; Dasgupta, S.; Mukherjee, S.; Linert, W.; Moi, S.C. Benzimidazole Based Pt(II) Complexes with Better Normal Cell Viability Than Cisplatin: Synthesis, Substitution Behavior, Cytotoxicity, DNA Binding and DFT Study. RSC Adv. 2016, 6, 76600–76613. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [Green Version]
  96. Cui, Z.; Lin, Y.; Liu, Y.; Cao, L.; Cui, L. Retinoic Acid-Platinum (II) Complex [RT-Pt(II)] Protects Against Rheumatoid Arthritis in Mice via MEK/Nuclear Factor kappa B (NF-κB) Pathway Downregulation. Med. Sci. Monit. 2020, 26, e924787. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  97. Wang, T.; Jin, X.; Liao, Y.; Sun, Q.; Luo, C.; Wang, G.; Zhao, F.; Jin, Y. Association of NF-κB and AP-1 with MMP-9 Overexpression in 2-Chloroethanol Exposed Rat Astrocytes. Cells 2018, 7, 96. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [Green Version]
  98. Rahman, F.U.; Ali, A.; Khan, I.U.; Duong, H.Q.; Guo, R.; Wang, H.; Li, Z.T.; Zhang, D.W. Novel Phenylenediamine Bridged Mixed Ligands Dimetallic Square Planner Pt(II) Complex Inhibits MMPs Expression via p53 and Caspase-dependent Signaling and Suppress Cancer Metastasis and Invasion. Eur. J. Med. Chem. 2017, 125, 1064–1075. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  99. Li, X.; Liu, Y.; Tian, H. Current Developments in Pt(IV) Prodrugs Conjugated with Bioactive Ligands. Bioinorg. Chem. Appl. 2018, 2018, 8276139. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [Green Version]
  100. Ma, D.L.; Chan, D.S.; Leung, C.H. Group 9 Organometallic Compounds for Therapeutic and Bioanalytical Applications. Acc. Chem. Res. 2014, 47, 3614–3631. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  101. Merlino, A. Interactions between Proteins and Ru Compounds of Medicinal Interest: A Structural Perspective. Coord. Chem. Rev. 2016, 326, 111–134. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  102. Palermo, G.; Magistrato, A.; Riedel, T.; von Erlach, T.; Davey, C.A.; Dyson, P.J.; Rothlisberger, U. Fighting Cancer with Transition Metal Complexes: From Naked DNA to Protein and Chromatin Targeting Strategies. ChemMedChem 2016, 11, 1199–1210. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed] [Green Version]
  103. Reedijk, J. Metal-Ligand Exchange Kinetics in Platinum and Ruthenium Complexes. Platin. Met. Rev. 2008, 52, 2–11. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  104. Dyson, C.S.A.P.J. Ruthenium in Medicine: Current Clinical Uses and Future Prospects. Platin. Met. Rev. 2001, 45, 62–69. [Google Scholar]
  105. Lee, S.Y.; Kim, C.Y.; Nam, T.G. Ruthenium Complexes as Anticancer Agents: A Brief History and Perspectives. Drug Des. Dev. Ther. 2020, 14, 5375–5392. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  106. Jayanthi, E.; Kalaiselvi, S.; Padma, V.V.; Bhuvanesh, N.S.; Dharmaraj, N. Solvent Assisted Formation of Ruthenium(III) and Ruthenium(II) Hydrazone Complexes in One-pot with Potential In Vitro Cytotoxicity and Enhanced LDH, NO and ROS Release. Dalton Trans. 2016, 45, 1693–1707. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  107. Mazuryk, O.; Suzenet, F.; Kieda, C.; Brindell, M. The Biological Effect of the Nitroimidazole Derivative of a Polypyridyl Ruthenium Complex on Cancer and Endothelial Cells. Metallomics 2015, 7, 553–566. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  108. Gurgul, I.; Mazuryk, O.; Lomzik, M.; Gros, P.C.; Rutkowska-Zbik, D.; Brindell, M. Unexplored Features of Ru(II) Polypyridyl Complexes-towards Combined Cytotoxic and Antimetastatic Activity. Metallomics 2020, 12, 784–793. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  109. Becker-Weimann, S.; Xiong, G.; Furuta, S.; Han, J.; Kuhn, I.; Akavia, U.D.; Pe’er, D.; Bissell, M.J.; Xu, R. NFκB Disrupts Tissue Polarity in 3D by Preventing Integration of Microenvironmental Signals. Oncotarget 2013, 4, 2010–2020. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [Green Version]
  110. Levina, A.; Mitra, A.; Lay, P.A. Recent Developments in Ruthenium Anticancer Drugs. Metallomics 2009, 1, 458–470. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  111. Clarke, M.J. Ruthenium Metallopharmaceuticals. Coord. Chem. Rev. 2002, 232, 69–93. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  112. Alessio, E.; Messori, L. NAMI-A and KP1019/1339, Two Iconic Ruthenium Anticancer Drug Candidates Face-to-Face: A Case Story in Medicinal Inorganic Chemistry. Molecules 2019, 24, 1995. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed] [Green Version]
  113. Sava, G.; Clerici, K.; Capozzi, I.; Cocchietto, M.; Gagliardi, R.; Alessio, E.; Mestroni, G.; Perbellini, A. Reduction of Lung Metastasis by ImH[trans-RuCl4(DMSO)Im]: Mechanism of the Selective Action Investigated on Mouse Tumors. Anticancer Drugs 1999, 10, 129–138. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  114. Mestroni, G.; Alessio, E.; Sava, G.; Pacor, S.; Coluccia, M.; Boccarelli, A. Water-Soluble Ruthenium(III)-Dimethyl Sulfoxide Complexes: Chemical Behaviour and Pharmaceutical Properties. Met. Based Drugs 1994, 1, 41–63. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed] [Green Version]
  115. Brabec, V.; Kasparkova, J. Ruthenium Coordination Compounds of Biological and Biomedical Significance. DNA Binding Agents. Coord. Chem. Rev. 2018, 376, 75–94. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  116. Trondl, R.; Heffeter, P.; Kowol, C.R.; Jakupec, M.A.; Berger, W.; Keppler, B.K. NKP-1339, the First Ruthenium-based Anticancer Drug on the Edge to Clinical Application. Chem. Sci. 2014, 5, 2925–2932. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [Green Version]
  117. Morbidelli, L.; Donnini, S.; Filippi, S.; Messori, L.; Piccioli, F.; Orioli, P.; Sava, G.; Ziche, M. Antiangiogenic Properties of Selected Ruthenium(III) Complexes That are Nitric Oxide Scavengers. Br. J. Cancer 2003, 88, 1484–1491. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [Green Version]
  118. Gomes, L.M.F.; Bataglioli, J.C.; Jussila, A.J.; Smith, J.R.; Walsby, C.J.; Storr, T. Modification of Aβ Peptide Aggregation via Covalent Binding of a Series of Ru(III) Complexes. Front. Chem. 2019, 7, 838. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  119. Wang, J.; Chen, D.; Li, B.; He, J.; Duan, D.; Shao, D.; Nie, M. Fe-MIL-101 Exhibits Selective Cytotoxicity and Inhibition of Angiogenesis in Ovarian Cancer Cells via Downregulation of MMP. Sci. Rep. 2016, 6, 26126. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [Green Version]
  120. Denoyer, D.; Clatworthy, S.A.S.; Cater, M.A. Copper Complexes in Cancer Therapy. Met. Ions Life Sci. 2018, 18, 469–506. [Google Scholar]
  121. Shi, X.; Chen, Z.; Wang, Y.; Guo, Z.; Wang, X. Hypotoxic Copper Complexes with Potent Anti-metastatic and Anti-angiogenic Activities Against Cancer Cells. Dalton Trans. 2018, 47, 5049–5054. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  122. Ludtke, C.; Sobottka, S.; Heinrich, J.; Liebing, P.; Wedepohl, S.; Sarkar, B.; Kulak, N. Forty Years after the Discovery of Its Nucleolytic Activity: [Cu(phen)2 ]2+ Shows Unattended DNA Cleavage Activity upon Fluorination. Chem. Eur. J. 2021, 27, 3273–3277. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  123. Foo, J.B.; Low, M.L.; Lim, J.H.; Lor, Y.Z.; Zainol Abidin, R.; Eh Dam, V.; Abdul Rahman, N.; Beh, C.Y.; Chan, L.C.; How, C.W.; et al. Copper Complex Derived from S-benzyldithiocarbazate and 3-acetylcoumarin Induced Apoptosis in Breast Cancer Cell. BioMetals 2018, 31, 505–515. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
Figure 1. ZBG-based regulators and non-ZBG-based regulators targeting catalytic domain and exosite-targeted regulator.
Figure 1. ZBG-based regulators and non-ZBG-based regulators targeting catalytic domain and exosite-targeted regulator.
Ijms 24 01258 g001
Figure 2. The proposed mechanisms for regulating MMPs by metal complexes in directly and indirectly.
Figure 2. The proposed mechanisms for regulating MMPs by metal complexes in directly and indirectly.
Ijms 24 01258 g002
Figure 3. Pt(II) complexes regulating the activity and expression of MMPs.
Figure 3. Pt(II) complexes regulating the activity and expression of MMPs.
Ijms 24 01258 g003
Figure 4. Pt(IV) complexes regulating the activity and expression of MMPs.
Figure 4. Pt(IV) complexes regulating the activity and expression of MMPs.
Ijms 24 01258 g004
Figure 5. Ru(II) complexes regulating the activity and expression of MMPs.
Figure 5. Ru(II) complexes regulating the activity and expression of MMPs.
Ijms 24 01258 g005
Figure 6. Ru(III) complexes regulating the activity and expression of MMPs.
Figure 6. Ru(III) complexes regulating the activity and expression of MMPs.
Ijms 24 01258 g006
Figure 7. Au complexes for regulating the activity and expression of MMPs.
Figure 7. Au complexes for regulating the activity and expression of MMPs.
Ijms 24 01258 g007
Figure 8. Fe complexes regulating the activity and expression of MMPs.
Figure 8. Fe complexes regulating the activity and expression of MMPs.
Ijms 24 01258 g008
Figure 9. Cu complexes regulating the activity and expression of MMPs.
Figure 9. Cu complexes regulating the activity and expression of MMPs.
Ijms 24 01258 g009
Figure 10. Ni(II)-, Zn(II)-, and Sn(II)-complexes regulating the activity and expression of MMPs.
Figure 10. Ni(II)-, Zn(II)-, and Sn(II)-complexes regulating the activity and expression of MMPs.
Ijms 24 01258 g010
Table 1. Locations and biological functions of MMP-2 and MMP-9 as well as the diseases related to the enzymes.
Table 1. Locations and biological functions of MMP-2 and MMP-9 as well as the diseases related to the enzymes.
MMPExpressed CellsBiological FunctionsRelated Diseases
MMP-2
  • Cardiomyocyte
  • Smooth muscle
  • Platelet
  • Fibroblast
  • Osteosarcoma
  • Cerebral neuron
  • Endothelial cell
  • Keratinocyte
  • Anti-inflammation
  • Cell migration through activate p38-MAPK/ML/SHP27 signaling
  • Elevation of collagen affinity, epithelial cell migration
  • Enhancement of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β)
  • Neuronal apoptosis and growth of axons
  • Proliferation and cleaving of IGF-1 binding proteins
  • Facilitation of Aβ clearance
  • Cancer
  • Alzheimer’s disease
  • Inflammation
  • Asthma
  • Fibrosis
  • Cardiovascular disease
MMP-9
  • Leukocyte
  • Cardiomyocyte
  • Retinal endothelial cell
  • Osteoclast
  • Cerebral neuron
  • Megakaryocyte
  • Anti-inflammatory and pro-inflammatory activity
  • Increase in collagen affinity
  • Reduction of IL-2 response
  • Activation of TGF-β in cancer progression
  • Apoptosis of hypertrophic chondrocytes
  • Increase in sAPPα and facilitation of Aβ clearance
  • Cancer
  • Alzheimer’s disease
  • Inflammation
Table 2. A summary of general advantages and limitations of metal complexes mentioned above.
Table 2. A summary of general advantages and limitations of metal complexes mentioned above.
Anti-Cancer and
Alzheimer’s Disease
Related Actions
AdvantagesLimitations
  • Regulation of the expression and activity of MMP-2 and MMP-9
  • Anti-metastasis
  • Anti-angiogenesis
  • Anti-proliferative
  • Suppression of cell migration
  • Promotion of apoptotic process
  • Simplicity in synthesis
  • Effective at a small dose, in a short time
  • Higher cytotoxicity towards cancer cells with less side effects than cisplatin
  • Stronger MMPs inhibition than the hydroxamate-based MMPs inhibitors (GM6001)
  • Higher selectivity against towards cancer cells with less toxicity to normal cells
    (e.g., Ru(ThySMet) [90]; Fe complexes [84,119]; CPT8 [121]; [Cu(trp)2]2+ [82])
  • Under clinical trial (e.g., NAMI-A).
  • No significant damage or toxicity to the major organs
    (e.g., Ru complex [77,78]; Fe complexes [84,119])
  • Unclear detailed mechanisms of cytotoxicity
  • Some side effects
    (e.g., Ru(dip)2(bpy-2-nitroIm) [107])
Disclaimer/Publisher’s Note: The statements, opinions and data contained in all publications are solely those of the individual author(s) and contributor(s) and not of MDPI and/or the editor(s). MDPI and/or the editor(s) disclaim responsibility for any injury to people or property resulting from any ideas, methods, instructions or products referred to in the content.

Share and Cite

MDPI and ACS Style

Nguyen, Y.T.; Kim, N.; Lee, H.J. Metal Complexes as Promising Matrix Metalloproteinases Regulators. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2023, 24, 1258. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms24021258

AMA Style

Nguyen YT, Kim N, Lee HJ. Metal Complexes as Promising Matrix Metalloproteinases Regulators. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 2023; 24(2):1258. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms24021258

Chicago/Turabian Style

Nguyen, Yen Thi, Namdoo Kim, and Hyuck Jin Lee. 2023. "Metal Complexes as Promising Matrix Metalloproteinases Regulators" International Journal of Molecular Sciences 24, no. 2: 1258. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms24021258

APA Style

Nguyen, Y. T., Kim, N., & Lee, H. J. (2023). Metal Complexes as Promising Matrix Metalloproteinases Regulators. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 24(2), 1258. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms24021258

Note that from the first issue of 2016, this journal uses article numbers instead of page numbers. See further details here.

Article Metrics

Back to TopTop