Synergistic interaction between a novel mixed ligand copper(II) chelate complex and a panel of anticancer agents in T47D human breast cancer cells in vitro.

Purpose: We have developed a novel copper(II) chelate complex with a tridentate ONN-Schiff base ligand and the anion of salicylate, which presented a potent cytotoxic activity against a panel of human and murine cancer cell lines. In this experiment we explored the combined effect between Cu(SalNEt(2))salicylate (Cu-Sal) complex and the widely used anticancer drugs carboplatin (CBDCA), cyclophosphamide (CTX) and paclitaxel (TXL) against T47D human breast cancer cells. Theoretical (quantum-chemical) study of this complex and its adducts with biological molecules were carried out, aiming at the elucidation of the underlying mechanism of action.

Materials And Methods: Cells grown in adherence in 96-well microplates were exposed simultaneously to both agents for 48 h. Drug cytotoxicity was assessed via the XTT colorimetric assay. The combined drug interaction was assessed with the median-effect analysis and the combination index (CI).

Results: Copper(II) salicylate complex was proved active against T47D human breast cancer cells. Concurrent treatment of cells with Cu-Sal complex and the chemotherapeutic drugs CBDCA, CTX and TXL, mainly showed a synergistic interaction in most concentration ratios.

Conclusion: Cu-Sal complex interacts synergistically with tested chemotherapeutic drugs for most schedules of administration, and only occasionally an additive or antagonistic effect was apparent. With the aid of quantum-chemical calculations it was demonstrated that the mechanism of action of this complex involves binding to DNA and RNA. These findings prompt to search for possible interaction of this complex with other cellular elements of fundamental importance in cell proliferation.