copper(I) nicotinate

Copper(I) nicotinate (CNC) is a copper-based coordination complex being investigated for its potential chemotherapeutic properties, particularly in the treatment of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). The compound functions by modulating the Notch1 signaling pathway, a key regulator of cell fate, differentiation, and apoptosis that is frequently overexpressed in aggressive tumors. By influencing the expression of Notch1 downstream genes and inducing autophagy (marked by changes in microtubule-associated protein light chain 3 levels), CNC promotes programmed cell death in cancer cells while exhibiting lower toxicity toward normal cells compared to traditional metal-based drugs. Research also suggests it may act synergistically with conventional chemotherapeutics like doxorubicin to enhance anti-tumor activity.

Other names

cuprous nicotinatecopper(I) niacin complextetrakis(nicotinato)tetracopper(I)