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Updated: Aug 15, 2026

Synthesis and Evaluation of a Ruthenium-based Mitochondrial Calcium Uptake Inhibitor
Published on: October 26, 2017
Electrochemistry of the anticancer agents methotrexate and alpha-difluoromethylornithine in iminium form
P Kovacic1, J R Ames, E C Taylor
1Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee 53201.
Abstract:
The electrochemical characteristics of the antitumor agents methotrexate and alpha-difluoromethylornithine were determined as their iminium derivatives. Iminium formation from methotrexate is accomplished in vivo via protonation by enzyme. The requisite imine precursor is generated from alpha-difluoromethylornithine by condensation with enzyme containing pyridoxal phosphate. Electroreduction occurs in the range of -0.2 to -0.6 V. The relationship of reduction to structure is discussed. A possible mode of anticancer action involving electron transfer is presented.
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