Dichlorotetra-mu-Isobutyratodirhenium(III): enhancement of cisplatin action and RBC-stabilizing properties

Previous investigations showed antitumor properties of dirhenium carboxylate introduced to tumor-bearing animals at high doses. The development of liposomal forms of rhenium substances and the activity of dichlorotetra-mu-isobutyratodirhenium (III) (Re1) in stabilizing red blood cells (RBC) shown in experiments in vitro and in vivo enabled the use of this substance in the present study. The aim of the work was to investigate the antitumor properties of Re1 in liposomal form alone and together with cisplatin, and to analyze whether Re1 can support RBC in the model of tumor growth.

Introduction of a single dose of cisplatin and liposomal forms of Re1 according to a scheme of antioxidant therapy was tested in a rat model of specific Guerink (T-8) carcinoma. The dynamics of tumor growth, weights of isolated tumors, RBC morphology and hemoglobin levels were measured.

The cluster rhenium compound, Re1, with carboxylic ligands had its own anticancer properties and enhanced cisplatin action on tumor growth. Introduction of the rhenium substance led to an increase in quantities of normal RBC forms in blood of tumor-bearing animals. Possible mechanisms of enhancement of cisplatin efficiency by Re1 according to its structural peculiarities are discussed.

A novel antitumor system including the use of a cluster rhenium compound and cisplatin is presented. Enhancement of cisplatin action and antitumor properties of rhenium compound initially took place due to the properties of quadruple metal-to-metal bond between two atoms of rhenium.