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Cellular toxicity of organotellurans: a systematic review of pre-clinical studies
Maria Luisa Lima Barreto do Nascimento1, Isabela Ribeiro de Sá Guimarães Nolêto2,3, Francisco Leonardo Torres-Leal4
1Laboratory of Genetical Toxicology, Postgraduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Piauí, Teresina, Piauí, 64.049-550, Brazil. mlbarreto95@gmail.com.
Abstract:
Organotellurans, which are organometallic compounds containing a tellurium atom, have attracted a great deal of attention in recent years due to their unique structural properties and potential pharmacological applications, despite their potential toxicity risks. The purpose of this review is to evaluate the cytotoxic effects of organotellurans as potential anticancer agents by examining their cellular and genetic mechanisms of action and assessing their toxicity in preclinical studies. A thorough search of multiple databases resulted in the selection of 32 articles that investigated a total of 30 different varieties of organotelluran molecules at varying concentrations. Most of the studies have demonstrated the cytotoxic potential of organotellurans in various cell lines and in vivo experiments, with the observed effects being directly proportional to concentrations and doses. Mechanisms of action included cell cycle arrest, upregulation of caspase proteins, mitochondrial instability, modulation of gene expression associated with cell death mediators such as Bcl2, as well as genotoxic and mutagenic effects. The findings demonstrate the cytotoxic potential of organotellurans against cancer cells. However, additional research is necessary to better comprehend their mechanisms, optimize their efficacy, and address potential toxicity concerns. Organotellurans show promise as potential anticancer agents, but careful consideration of their cytotoxic effects and toxicity profiles is necessary for their future development.
Insights
Organotellurans show promise as anticancer agents due to their cytotoxic effects on cancer cells. Further research is needed to optimize efficacy and address toxicity concerns for these organometallic compounds.
Area of Science:
- Medicinal Chemistry
- Toxicology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Organotellurans, organometallic compounds containing tellurium, are gaining attention for their unique structures and potential therapeutic uses.
- Despite potential pharmacological applications, organotellurans also present toxicity risks that warrant investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the cytotoxic effects of organotellurans as potential anticancer agents.
- To examine the cellular and genetic mechanisms underlying their action.
- To assess toxicity in preclinical studies.
Main Methods:
- A systematic literature search identified 32 articles.
- Reviewed studies investigated 30 distinct organotelluran molecules.
- Data from cell lines and in vivo experiments were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Most studies demonstrated significant cytotoxic potential of organotellurans against various cancer cell lines.
- Observed cytotoxic effects were dose-dependent.
- Mechanisms included cell cycle arrest, caspase upregulation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and genotoxicity.
Conclusions:
- Organotellurans exhibit considerable cytotoxic potential against cancer cells, supporting their development as anticancer agents.
- Further research is essential to elucidate mechanisms, enhance efficacy, and mitigate toxicity.
- Careful evaluation of cytotoxic effects and toxicity profiles is crucial for future organotelluran drug development.
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