Radiosensitization by cobalt and Fe (III) complexes.

摘要

The present invention relates to radiosensitization and, more particularly, to rendering hypoxic cells more sensitive to being killed by X-rays or other forms of irradiation. In particular, the invention is directed to a pharmaceutical composition containing a radio-sensitizing amount of Co (III) or Fe (III) coordination compound selected from the group consisting of:

  (1) compounds having the formula:
[CoNnX6-n]<Y> (1)
where n has a value of 3 or 4;
N is an uncharged nitrogen donor atom that is contained in a ligand;
X represents an anionic ligand; and
Y represents the charge on the complex;
  (2) compounds having the formula:
(CoA2X<1>D)<Y @> (2)
where A represents a bidentate or tetradentate negative ligand containing N or O donor atoms:
X<1> and D represent the same or different monodentate ligands; and
Y<1> represents a positive or negative charge on the complex;
  (3) compounds having the formula:
[CoZ3] (3)
where Z represents a chelating mononegative ligand; and
  (4) Compounds of the formula:
[Fe TT<1>]<+> (4)
where T and T<1>, which may be the same or different, represent mono-negative tridentate ligands.

<??>The invention also includes a method for rendering hypoxic cells more sensitive to irradiation which comprises subjecting the cells to treatment using the Co (III) or Fe (III) coordination compounds defined above.