Metallodrugs

Question 1

How may Vn be antidiabetic?

Answer 1

Vn compounds inhibit protein tyrosine phosphatases as vanadyl ion = mimic of phosphate. PTP inhibition –> insulin receptor kept phosphorylated allowing Glc transport into cell.
V(IV) may also activate recruitment of Glc transporters to CM –> increase in Glc uptake and lowering of blood glc.

Question 2

What are ruthenium compounds in clinical trials as?

Answer 2

anticancer drugs.

Question 3

What about chromium?

Answer 3

Cr(III) affects insulin pathway

Cr(VI) chromate is a potent carcinogen.

Question 4

What is Penicillamine used for?

Answer 4

Cu toxicity. Adjunctive therapy in: gold toxicity, As poisoning, Pb poisoning, Rheumatoid arthritis.

Question 5

What is DMSA used for?

Answer 5

Lead poisoning, As poisoning, Hg poisoning.

Question 6

Give four uses for zinc compounds.

Answer 6

antiepileptic, WIlson’s disease, acrodermatitis enteropathica, wound healing.