Synthesis, characterization and cytotoxicity of the Au(III) complexes with cyclic amine-based dithiocarbamate ligands

Seven new Au(III) complexes ([(PipDTC)AuCl2] (1), [(MoDTC)AuCl2] (2), [(BzoPizDTC)AuCl2] (3), [(TsPizDTC)AuCl2] (4), [(PizDTC)Au2Cl4] (5), [(MePizDTC)Au2Cl5] (6) and [(EtPizDTC)Au2Cl5] (7)) with cyclic amine-based dithiocarbamate have been synthesized, characterized and evaluated in vitro. The results indicate that these complexes exert selective cytotoxic effects against HL-60, BGC-823, Bel-7402 and KB cells lines. Complex 1 shows 11-, 5- and 1-folds higher cytotoxicity than cisplatin against KB, BGC-823 and Bel-7402 cell lines. Complex 2 exhibits higher cytotoxicity than cisplatin against BGC-823 and Bel-7402 cell lines. Complexes 3 and 4 display higher cytotoxicity than cisplatin against BGC-823 cell line. The nature of cyclic amine and the number of metal centers have important effects on cytotoxicity of these Au(III) complexes.