Thiosemicarbazone-Based Compounds: Cancer Cell Inhibitors with Antioxidant Properties

Olga Garbuz; Emil Ceban; Dorin Istrati; Nadejda Railean; Ion Toderas; Aurelian Gulea

doi:10.3390/molecules30092077

Molecules (May 2025)

Thiosemicarbazone-Based Compounds: Cancer Cell Inhibitors with Antioxidant Properties

Olga Garbuz,
Emil Ceban,
Dorin Istrati,
Nadejda Railean,
Ion Toderas,
Aurelian Gulea

Affiliations

Olga Garbuz: Laboratory of Systematics and Molecular Phylogenetics, Institute of Zoology, Moldova State University, 1 Academiei Street, MD-2028 Chisinau, Moldova
Emil Ceban: Department of Urology and Surgical Nephrology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Nicolae Testemitanu”, 165 Stefan cel Mare si Sfant Bd., MD-2004 Chisinau, Moldova
Dorin Istrati: Department of Urology and Surgical Nephrology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Nicolae Testemitanu”, 165 Stefan cel Mare si Sfant Bd., MD-2004 Chisinau, Moldova
Nadejda Railean: Laboratory of Systematics and Molecular Phylogenetics, Institute of Zoology, Moldova State University, 1 Academiei Street, MD-2028 Chisinau, Moldova
Ion Toderas: Laboratory of Systematics and Molecular Phylogenetics, Institute of Zoology, Moldova State University, 1 Academiei Street, MD-2028 Chisinau, Moldova
Aurelian Gulea: Laboratory of Advanced Materials in Biopharmaceutics and Technics, Institute of Chemistry, Moldova State University, 60 Mateevici Street, MD-2009 Chisinau, Moldova

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30092077
Journal volume & issue: Vol. 30, no. 9
p. 2077

Abstract

Read online

Thiosemicarbazone-based compounds have attracted significant attention in recent years due to their potential as inhibitors of cancer cell proliferation. They not only exhibit strong antiproliferative effects but also possess antioxidant properties that are crucial in combating oxidative stress linked to cancer progression. This review highlights specific compounds that not only exhibit significantly higher antiproliferative activities but also demonstrate lower toxicity compared to traditional chemotherapy agents. This is important because it suggests that these compounds could provide better treatment options while reducing the side effects often associated with chemotherapy. A detailed analysis of the structure–activity relationships (SARs) reveals that the unique structural features of these compounds play a crucial role in their enhanced effectiveness. Understanding which molecular characteristics contribute to improved activity will be key for future compound design. The findings from this study emphasize the need for further exploration and development of these novel agents. By investigating their biological mechanisms and optimizing their structures, researchers can improve cancer treatment strategies, providing safer and more effective options for patients. Despite substantial previous research on thiosemicarbazones and isothiosemicarbazones, the field still holds many unknowns and opportunities for discovery. Studying coordination chemistry with 3d metal ions and strategically modifying their inner structures may lead to new compounds with promising biological activities and selectivity. Overall, exploring thiosemicarbazones and isothiosemicarbazones as innovative pharmacological agents against cancer could unlock their full potential, significantly enhancing cancer treatment protocols and improving patient survival rates.

Published in Molecules

ISSN: 1420-3049 (Online)
Publisher: MDPI AG
Country of publisher: Switzerland
LCC subjects: Science: Chemistry: Organic chemistry
Website: http://www.mdpi.com/journal/molecules

About the journal

Abstract

Keywords