[Ru(bpy)2(bpy-styryl-OMe)]Cl2

[Ru(bpy)2(bpy-styryl-OMe)]Cl2 is a ruthenium(II) polypyridine complex developed as a photosensitizer for photodynamic therapy (PDT), specifically investigated for the treatment of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). The molecule consists of a ruthenium center coordinated by two 2,2'-bipyridine ligands and one bipyridine ligand functionalized with a methoxystyryl group. Upon activation by light, the complex generates reactive oxygen species (ROS), primarily singlet oxygen, which induces oxidative stress and triggers diverse cell death pathways, including autophagy and ferroptosis. Research indicates that this specific photosensitizer induces milder endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress compared to other ruthenium analogs, which paradoxically results in a more potent antitumor immune response and the promotion of immunogenic cell death (ICD) signals in vivo.

Other names

Ruthenium(II) bis(2,2'-bipyridine)(4'-((E)-4-methoxystyryl)-2,2'-bipyridine) dichloride