Utilizing the metal coordination and supramolecular chemistry of macrocycles to tackle medicinal issues
Carl Redshaw
Abstract
In this review, recent (post-2018) prominent examples of metal coordination and/or supramolecular chemistry of macrocycles , which have been employed against a variety of diseases are highlighted. The broad range of macrocycles available as well as their facile modification and, in some cases, the ability to act as hosts is leading to a growth in the use of macrocyclic metal-based agents against a number of common health issues as well as some of the lesser-known ailments. The focus here is mostly on the use of systems comprised of either calixarenes or cucurbiturils , but we also note some of the highlights that have emerged from the use of other metal-containing macrocyclic systems such as those based on pillarenes, cyclodextrins , crown ethers , and Schiff-base macrocycles. Much of the work is centered around improving the delivery and effectiveness of metal-containing anti-cancer drugs, particularly those based on platinum, however, there have also been advances in a number of other areas such as their use as agents against bacteria, TB or HIV. A significant body of work has also been conducted in conjunction with nanoparticles , where the surface of the nanoparticles has been modified with a view to subsequent use in medicine.