Radio-Sensitizing Effects of Cu and Zn Complexes of Ornidazole: Role of Nitro Radical Anion.

The treatment of malignant cells that are deficient in oxygen due to the insufficient flow of blood is often seen as a major hindrance in radiotherapy. Such cells become radio-resistant because molecular oxygen, the natural and best radio-sensitizer, is depleted. Hence, to compensate this deficiency in oxygen, there is a need for agents that enhance radiation-induced damage of cells (radio-sensitizers) in a manner that normal cells are least affected.