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Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a debilitating affliction of the central nervous system (CNS) that involves demyelination of neuronal axons and neurodegeneration resulting in disability that becomes more pronounced in progressive forms of the disease. The involvement of neurodegeneration in MS underscores the need for effective neuroprotective approaches necessitating identification of new therapeutic targets. Herein, we applied an integrated elemental analysis workflow to human MS-affected spinal cord tissue utilising multiple inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry methodologies. These analyses revealed shifts in atomic copper as a notable aspect of disease. Complementary gene expression and biochemical analyses demonstrated that changes in copper levels coincided with altered expression of copper handling genes and downstream functionality of cuproenzymes. Copper-related problems observed in the human MS spinal cord were largely reproduced in the experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) mouse model during the acute phase of disease characterised by axonal demyelination, lesion formation, and motor neuron loss. Treatment of EAE mice with the CNS-permeant copper modulating compound Cu II (atsm) resulted in recovery of cuproenzyme function, improved myelination and lesion volume, and neuroprotection. These findings support targeting copper perturbations as a therapeutic strategy for MS with Cu II (atsm) showing initial promise., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest Collaborative Medicinal Development has licensed intellectual property pertaining to Cu(II)(atsm) from the University of Melbourne where the inventors include ARW and PSD. AIB is a paid consultant for Collaborative Medicinal Development LLC and has a profit share interest in Collaborative Medicinal Development Pty Ltd. PJC and JSB are unpaid consultants for Collaborative Medicinal Development LLC. DJH received research and material support from Agilent Technologies and ESI Ltd., (Copyright © 2024 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Purpose To develop an approach for in vivo detection of interstitial cardiac fibrosis using PET with a peptide tracer targeting proteolyzed collagen IV (T-peptide). Materials and Methods T-peptide was conjugated to the copper chelator MeCOSar (chemical name, 5-(8-methyl-3,6,10,13,16,19-hexaaza-bicyclo[6.6.6]icosan-1-ylamino)-5-oxopentanoic acid) and radiolabeled with copper 64 ( 64 Cu). PET/CT scans were acquired following intravenous delivery of 64 Cu-T-peptide-MeCOSar (0.25 mg/kg; 18 MBq ± 2.7 [SD]) to male transgenic mice overexpressing β2-adrenergic receptors with intermediate (7 months of age; n = 4 per group) to severe (10 months of age; n = 11 per group) cardiac fibrosis and their wild-type controls. PET scans were also performed following coadministration of the radiolabeled probe with nonlabeled T-peptide in excess to confirm binding specificity. PET data were analyzed by t tests for static scans and analysis of variance tests (one- or two-way) for dynamic scans. Results PET/CT scans revealed significantly elevated (2.24-4.26-fold; P < .05) 64 Cu-T-peptide-MeCOSar binding in the fibrotic hearts of aged transgenic β2-adrenergic receptor mice across the entire 45-minute acquisition period compared with healthy controls. The cardiac tracer accumulation and presence of diffuse cardiac fibrosis in older animals were confirmed by gamma counting ( P < .05) and histologic evaluation, respectively. Coadministration of a nonradiolabeled probe in excess abolished the elevated radiotracer binding in the aged transgenic hearts. Importantly, PET tracer accumulation was also detected in younger (7 months of age) transgenic mice with intermediate cardiac fibrosis, although this was only apparent from 20 minutes following injection (1.6-2.2-fold binding increase; P < .05). Conclusion The T-peptide PET tracer targeting proteolyzed collagen IV provided a sensitive and specific approach of detecting diffuse cardiac fibrosis at varying degrees of severity in a transgenic mouse model. Keywords: Diffuse Cardiac Fibrosis, Molecular Peptide Probe, Molecular Imaging, PET/CT © RSNA, 2024.

P-glycoprotein (P-gp) is an efflux transporter at the blood-brain barrier (BBB) that hinders brain access of substrate drugs and clears endogenous molecules such as amyloid beta (Aβ) from the brain. As biometals such as copper (Cu) modulate many neuronal signalling pathways linked to P-gp regulation, it was hypothesised that the bis(thiosemicarbazone) (BTSC) Cu-releasing complex, copper II glyoxal bis(4-methyl-3-thiosemicarbazone) (Cu II [GTSM]), would enhance P-gp expression and function at the BBB, while copper II diacetyl bis(4-methyl-3-thiosemicarbazone) (Cu II [ATSM]), which only releases Cu under hypoxic conditions, would not modulate P-gp expression. Following treatment with 25-250 nM Cu II (BTSC)s for 8-48 h, expression of P-gp mRNA and protein in human brain endothelial (hCMEC/D3) cells was assessed by RT-qPCR and Western blot, respectively. P-gp function was assessed by measuring accumulation of the fluorescent P-gp substrate, rhodamine 123 and intracellular Cu levels were quantified by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Interestingly, Cu II (ATSM) significantly enhanced P-gp expression and function 2-fold and 1.3-fold, respectively, whereas Cu II (GTSM) reduced P-gp expression 0.5-fold and function by 200%. As both compounds increased intracellular Cu levels, the effect of different BTSC backbones, independent of Cu, on P-gp expression was assessed. However, only the Cu-ATSM complex enhanced P-gp expression and this was mediated partly through activation (1.4-fold) of the extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1 and 2, an outcome that was significantly attenuated in the presence of an inhibitor of the mitogen-activated protein kinase regulatory pathway. Our findings suggest that Cu II (ATSM) and Cu II (GTSM) have the potential to modulate the expression and function of P-gp at the BBB to impact brain drug delivery and clearance of Aβ., (© 2022 The Authors. Journal of Neurochemistry published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of International Society for Neurochemistry.)

Alzheimer's disease is characterized by the presence of extracellular amyloid-β plaques. Positron emission tomography (PET) imaging with tracers radiolabeled with positron-emitting radionuclides that bind to amyloid-β plaques can assist in the diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease. With the goal of designing new imaging agents radiolabeled with positron-emitting copper-64 radionuclides that bind to amyloid-β plaques, a family of bis(thiosemicarbazone) ligands with appended substituted stilbenyl functional groups has been prepared. The ligands form charge-neutral and stable complexes with copper(II). The new ligands can be radiolabeled with copper-64 at room temperature. Two lead complexes were demonstrated to bind to amyloid-β plaques present in post-mortem brain tissue from subjects with clinically diagnosed Alzheimer's disease and crossed the blood-brain barrier in mice. The work presented here provides strategies to prepare compounds with radionuclides of copper that can be used for targeted brain PET imaging.

The application of small molecules targeting prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) has emerged as a highly promising clinical strategy for visualization and treatment of prostate cancer. Ligands that integrate the ability to both quantify the distribution of radioactivity and treat disease through the use of a matched pair of radionuclides have particular value in clinical and regulatory settings. In this study, we describe the development and preclinical evaluation of RPS-085, a ligand that binds PSMA and serum albumin and exploits the 64/67 Cu radionuclide pair for prostate cancer theranostics. RPS-085 was synthesized by conjugation of a PSMA-targeting moiety, an N ε -(2-(4-iodophenyl)acetyl)lysine albumin binding group, and a bifunctionalized MeCOSar chelator. The IC 50 of the metal-free RPS-085 was determined in a competitive binding assay. The affinity for human serum albumin of the radiolabeled compound was determined by high-performance affinity chromatography. Radiolabeling was performed in NH 4 OAc buffer at 25 °C. The stability of the radiolabeled compounds was assessed in vitro and in vivo. The biodistribution of [ 64/67 Cu]Cu-RPS-085 was determined following intravenous administration to male BALB/c mice bearing LNCaP tumor xenografts. The radiochemical yields of [ 64/67 Cu]Cu-RPS-085 were nearly quantitative after 20 min. The metal-free complex is a potent inhibitor of PSMA (IC 50 = 29 ± 2 nM), and the radiolabeled compound has moderate affinity for human serum albumin ( K d = 9.9 ± 1.7 μM). Accumulation of the tracer in mice was primarily evident in tumor and kidneys. Activity in all other tissues, including blood, was negligible, and the radiolabeled compounds demonstrated high stability in vitro and in vivo. Tumor activity reached a maximum at 4 h post injection (p.i.) and cleared gradually over a period of 96 h. By contrast, activity in the kidney cleared rapidly from 4 to 24 h p.i. As a consequence, by 24 h p.i., the tumor-to-kidney ratio exceeds 2, and the predicted dose to tumors is significantly greater than the dose to kidneys. [ 64 Cu]Cu-RPS-085 combines rapid tissue distribution and clearance with prolonged retention in LNCaP tumor xenografts. The pharmacokinetics should enable radioligand therapy using [ 67 Cu]Cu-RPS-085. By virtue of its rapid kidney clearance, the therapeutic index of [ 67 Cu]Cu-RPS-085 likely compares favorably to its parent structure, [ 177 Lu]Lu-RPS-063, a highly avid PSMA-targeting compound. On this basis, [ 64/67 Cu]Cu-RPS-085 show great promise as PSMA-targeting theranostic ligands for prostate cancer imaging and therapy.

Bis(thiosemicarbazonato)copper(II) complexes are of interest as potential therapeutics for cancer and neurodegenerative diseases as well as imaging agents for positron emission tomography (PET). The cellular uptake of six bis(thiosemcarbazonato)copper(II)complexes derived from glyoxal, with different functional groups Cu(gtsx) where x = different functional groups, was investigated in SKOV-3, HEK293, and HEK293 P-gp cell lines. Treatment of the cells with the copper complexes increased intracellular copper and increased levels of p-ERK due to activation of the Ras-Raf-MEK-ERK pathway. Treatment of SKOV-3 cells with low concentrations (μM) of two of the copper complexes led to trafficking of the endogenous copper transporter ATP7A from the Golgi network to the cell membrane. Experiments in HEK293 and HEK293-P-gp cells suggest that Cu(gtsm) and Cu(gtse) are substrates for the P-gp efflux protein but the complex with a pyrrolidine functional group, Cu(gtspyr), is not. A PET experiment in mice showed that [ 64 Cu]Cu(gtspyr) has reasonable brain uptake but high liver uptake.

The intracellular distribution of fluorescently labeled copper and zinc bis(thiosemicarbazonato) complexes was investigated in M17 neuroblastoma cells and primary cortical neurons with a view to providing insights into the neuroprotective activity of a copper bis(thiosemicarbazonato) complex known as Cu(II)(atsm). Time-resolved fluorescence measurements allowed the identification of the Cu(II) and Zn(II) complexes as well as the free ligand inside the cells by virtue of the distinct fluorescence lifetime of each species. Confocal fluorescent microscopy of cells treated with the fluorescent copper(II)bis(thiosemicarbazonato) complex revealed significant fluorescence associated with cytoplasmic puncta that were identified to be lysosomes in primary cortical neurons and both lipid droplets and lysosomes in M17 neuroblastoma cells. Fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy confirmed that the fluorescence signal emanating from the lipid droplets could be attributed to the copper(II) complex but also that some degree of loss of the metal ion led to diffuse cytosolic fluorescence that could be attributed to the metal-free ligand. The accumulation of the copper(II) complex in lipid droplets could be relevant to the neuroprotective activity of Cu(II)(atsm) in models of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and Parkinson's disease.

There is increasing interest in the use of lipophilic copper (Cu)-containing complexes to combat bacterial infections. In this work, we showed that Cu complexes with bis(thiosemicarbazone) ligands [Cu(btsc)] exert antibacterial activity against a range of medically significant pathogens. Previous work using Neisseria gonorrhoeae showed that Cu(btsc) complexes may act as inhibitors of respiratory dehydrogenases in the electron transport chain. We now show that these complexes are also toxic against pathogens that lack a respiratory chain. Respiration in Escherichia coli was slightly affected by Cu(btsc) complexes, but our results indicate that, in this model bacterium, the complexes act primarily as agents that deliver toxic Cu ions efficiently into the cytoplasm. Although the chemistry of Cu(btsc) complexes may dictate their mechanism of action, their efficacy depends heavily on bacterial physiology. This is linked to the ability of the target bacterium to tolerate Cu and, additionally, the susceptibility of the respiratory chain to direct inhibition by Cu(btsc) complexes. The physiology of N. gonorrhoeae, including multidrug-resistant strains, makes it highly susceptible to damage by Cu ions and Cu(btsc) complexes, highlighting the potential of Cu(btsc) complexes (and Cu-based therapeutics) as a promising treatment against this important bacterial pathogen., (Copyright © 2015, American Society for Microbiology. All Rights Reserved.)

Mutations in the metalloprotein Cu,Zn-superoxide dismutase (SOD1) cause approximately 20% of familial cases of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a fatal neurodegenerative disease for which effective therapeutics do not yet exist. Transgenic rodent models based on over-expression of mutant SOD1 have been developed and these have provided opportunity to test new therapeutic strategies and to study the mechanisms of mutant SOD1 toxicity. Although the mechanisms of mutant SOD1 toxicity are yet to be fully elucidated, incorrect or incomplete metallation of SOD1 confers abnormal folding, aggregation and biochemical properties, and improving the metallation state of SOD1 provides a viable therapeutic option. The therapeutic effects of delivering copper (Cu) to mutant SOD1 have been demonstrated recently. The aim of the current study was to determine if delivery of zinc (Zn) to SOD1 was also therapeutic. To investigate this, SOD1G37R mice were treated with the metal complex diacetyl-bis(4-methylthiosemicarbazonato)zinc(II) [Zn(II)(atsm)]. Treatment resulted in an improvement in locomotor function and survival of the mice. However, biochemical analysis of spinal cord tissue collected from the mice revealed that the treatment did not increase overall Zn levels in the spinal cord nor the Zn content of SOD1. In contrast, overall levels of Cu in the spinal cord were elevated in the Zn(II)(atsm)-treated SOD1G37R mice and the Cu content of SOD1 was also elevated. Further experiments demonstrated transmetallation of Zn(II)(atsm) in the presence of Cu to form the Cu-analogue Cu(II)(atsm), indicating that the observed therapeutic effects for Zn(II)(atsm) in SOD1G37R mice may in fact be due to in vivo transmetallation and subsequent delivery of Cu., (Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier Inc.)

Reliable quantification of copper binding affinities and identification of the binding sites provide a molecular basis for an understanding of the nutritional roles and toxic effects of copper ions. Sets of chromophoric probes are now available that can quantify Cu(i) binding affinities from nanomolar to attomolar concentrations on a unified scale under in vitro conditions. Equivalent probes for Cu(ii) are lacking. This work reports development of a set of four fluorescent dansyl peptide probes (DP1-4) that can quantify Cu(ii) binding affinities from micromolar to femtomolar concentrations, also on a unified scale. The probes were constructed by conjugation of a dansyl group to four short peptides of specific design. Each was characterised by its dissociation constant KD, its pH dependence and the nature of its binding site. One equivalent of Cu(ii) is bound by the individual probes that display different and well-separated affinities at pH 7.4 (log KD = -8.1, -10.1, -12.3 and -14.1, respectively). Intense fluorescence is emitted at λmax ∼ 550 nm upon excitation at ∼330 nm. Binding of Cu(ii) quenches the fluorescence intensity linearly until one equivalent of Cu(ii) is bound. Multiple approaches and multiple affinity standards were employed to ensure reliability. Selected examples of application to well-characterised Cu(ii) binding peptides and proteins are presented. These include Aβ16 peptides, two naturally occurring Cu(ii)-chelating motifs in human serum and cerebrospinal fluid with sequences GHK and DAHK and two copper binding proteins, CopC from Pseudomonas syringae and PcoC from Escherichia coli. Previously reported affinities are reproduced, demonstrating that peptides DP1-4 form a set of robust and reliable probes for Cu(ii) binding to peptides and protein targets.

Several copper(ii) complexes of bis(thiosemicarbazones) [Cu(btsc)s] show promise as therapeutics for the treatment of neurological diseases, cancers and bacterial infections. These complexes are thought to act primarily as copper ionophores or "copper boosting" agents, whereby the Cu(II) centre is reduced by cytosolic reductants and Cu(I) is released as "free" or "bioavailable" ion. It is then assumed that the dissociated Cu(I) ion is the species responsible for many of the observed biological effects of Cu(btsc)s. We recently showed that Cu(btsc) complexes inhibited NADH dehydrogenases in the bacterial respiratory chain. In this work, we demonstrate that Cu(btsc) complexes also inhibit mitochondrial respiration and that Complex I in the mitochondrial electron transport chain is a specific target of inhibition. However, bioavailable Cu ions do not appear to contribute to the action of Cu(btsc) as a respiratory inhibitor. Instead, an intact Cu(btsc) molecule may bind reversibly and competitively to the site of ubiquinone binding in Complex I. Our results add to the growing body of evidence that the intact complex may be important in the overall cellular activity of Cu(btsc) complexes and further the understanding of their biological effects as a potential therapeutic.

The enzyme-mediated site-specific bioconjugation of a radioactive metal complex to a single-chain antibody using the transpeptidase sortase A is reported. Cage amine sarcophagine ligands that were designed to function as substrates for the sortase A mediated bioconjugation to antibodies were synthesized and enzymatically conjugated to a single-chain variable fragment. The antibody fragment scFv(anti-LIBS) targets ligand-induced binding sites (LIBS) on the glycoprotein receptor GPIIb/IIIa, which is present on activated platelets. The immunoconjugates were radiolabeled with the positron-emitting isotope (64)Cu. The new radiolabeled conjugates were shown to bind selectively to activated platelets. The diagnostic potential of the most promising conjugate was demonstrated in an in vivo model of carotid artery thrombosis using positron emission tomography. This approach gives homogeneous products through site-specific enzyme-mediated conjugation and should be broadly applicable to other metal complexes and proteins., (© 2014 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.)

Abnormal biometal homeostasis is a central feature of many neurodegenerative disorders including Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), and motor neuron disease. Recent studies have shown that metal complexing compounds behaving as ionophores such as clioquinol and PBT2 have robust therapeutic activity in animal models of neurodegenerative disease; however, the mechanism of neuroprotective action remains unclear. These neuroprotective or neurogenerative processes may be related to the delivery or redistribution of biometals, such as copper and zinc, by metal ionophores. To investigate this further, we examined the effect of the bis(thiosemicarbazonato)-copper complex, Cu(II)(gtsm) on neuritogenesis and neurite elongation (neurogenerative outcomes) in PC12 neuronal-related cultures. We found that Cu(II)(gtsm) induced robust neurite elongation in PC12 cells when delivered at concentrations of 25 or 50 nM overnight. Analogous effects were observed with an alternative copper bis(thiosemicarbazonato) complex, Cu(II)(atsm), but at a higher concentration. Induction of neurite elongation by Cu(II)(gtsm) was restricted to neurites within the length range of 75-99 µm with a 2.3-fold increase in numbers of neurites in this length range with 50 nM Cu(II)(gtsm) treatment. The mechanism of neurogenerative action was investigated and revealed that Cu(II)(gtsm) inhibited cellular phosphatase activity. Treatment of cultures with 5 nM FK506 (calcineurin phosphatase inhibitor) resulted in analogous elongation of neurites compared to 50 nM Cu(II)(gtsm), suggesting a potential link between Cu(II)(gtsm)-mediated phosphatase inhibition and neurogenerative outcomes.

Our objective was to assess the copper(II) complex of diacetylbis(4-methylthiosemicarbazone) [Cu(II)(atsm)] for its preclinical potential as a novel therapeutic for ALS. Experimental paradigms used were designed to assess Cu(II)(atsm) efficacy relative to treatment with riluzole, as a function of dose administered, and when administered post symptom onset. Mice expressing human Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase harbouring the disease-causing G37R mutation (SOD1-G37R) were used and effects of Cu(II)(atsm) determined by assessing mouse survival and locomotor function (rotarod assay). Cu(II)(atsm) improved SOD1-G37R mouse survival and locomotor function in a dose-dependent manner. The highest dose tested improved survival by 26%. Riluzole had a modest effect on mouse survival (3.3%) but it did not improve locomotor function. Cotreatment with Cu(II)(atsm) did not alter the protective activity of Cu(II)(atsm) administered on its own. Commencing treatment with Cu(II)(atsm) after the onset of symptoms was less effective than treatments that commenced before symptom onset but still significantly improved locomotor function and survival. Improved locomotor function and survival of SOD1-G37R mice supports the potential for Cu(II)(atsm) as a novel treatment option for ALS.

One of the pathological hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease is the presence of amyloid-β plaques in the brain and the major constituent of these plaques is aggregated amyloid-β peptide. New thiosemicarbazone-pyridylhydrazine based ligands that incorporate functional groups designed to bind amyloid-β plaques have been synthesized. The new ligands form stable four coordinate complexes with a positron-emitting radioactive isotope of copper, (64)Cu. Two of the new Cu(II) complexes include a functionalized styrylpyridine group and these complexes bind to amyloid-β plaques in samples of post-mortem human brain tissue. Strategies to increase brain uptake by functional group manipulation have led to a (64)Cu complex that effectively crosses the blood-brain barrier in wild-type mice. The new complexes described in this manuscript provide insight into strategies to deliver metal complexes to amyloid-β plaques.

The therapeutic efficacy of two bis(thiosemicarbazonato) copper complexes, glyoxalbis[N4-methylthiosemicarbazonato]Cu(II) [Cu(II)(gtsm)] and diacetylbis[N4-methylthiosemicarbazonato]Cu(II) [Cu(II)(atsm)], for the treatment of prostate cancer was assessed in cell culture and animal models. Distinctively, copper dissociates intracellularly from Cu(II)(gtsm) but is retained by Cu(II)(atsm). We further demonstrated that intracellular H2gtsm [reduced Cu(II)(gtsm)] continues to redistribute copper into a bioavailable (exchangeable) pool. Both Cu(II)(gtsm) and Cu(II)(atsm) selectively kill transformed (hyperplastic and carcinoma) prostate cell lines but, importantly, do not affect the viability of primary prostate epithelial cells. Increasing extracellular copper concentrations enhanced the therapeutic capacity of both Cu(II)(gtsm) and Cu(II)(atsm), and their ligands (H2gtsm and H2atsm) were toxic only toward cancerous prostate cells when combined with copper. Treatment of the Transgenic Adenocarcinoma of Mouse Prostate (TRAMP) model with Cu(II)(gtsm) (2.5 mg/kg) significantly reduced prostate cancer burden (∼70%) and severity (grade), while treatment with Cu(II)(atsm) (30 mg/kg) was ineffective at the given dose. However, Cu(II)(gtsm) caused mild kidney toxicity in the mice, associated primarily with interstitial nephritis and luminal distention. Mechanistically, we demonstrated that Cu(II)(gtsm) inhibits proteasomal chymotrypsin-like activity, a feature further established as being common to copper-ionophores that increase intracellular bioavailable copper. We have demonstrated that increasing intracellular bioavailable copper can selectively kill cancerous prostate cells in vitro and in vivo and have revealed the potential for bis(thiosemicarbazone) copper complexes to be developed as therapeutics for prostate cancer.

Copper (Cu) is an essential biometal involved in a number of cell functions. Abnormal Cu homeostasis has been identified as a major factor in a number of neurodegenerative disorders. However, little is known about how cells of brain origin maintain Cu homeostasis and in particular, how they respond to an elevated Cu environment. Understanding these processes is essential to obtaining a greater insight into the pathological changes in neurodegeneration and ageing. Although previous studies have shown that Cu in neurons can be associated with synaptic function, there is little understanding of how Cu modulates the regulated secretory vesicle pathways in these cells. In this study, we examined the effect of elevated intracellular Cu on proteins associated with the regulated secretory vesicle pathway in NGF-differentiated PC12 cells that exhibit neuronal-like properties. Increasing intracellular Cu with a cell-permeable Cu-complex (Cu(II)(gtsm)) resulted in increased expression of synaptophysin and robust translocation of this and additional vesicular proteins from synaptic-like microvesicle (SLMV) fractions to chromogranin-containing putative large dense core vesicle (LDCV) fractions in density gradient preparations. The LDCV fractions also contained substantially elevated Cu levels upon treatment of cells with Cu(II)(gtsm). Expression of the H(+) pump, V-ATPase, which is essential for vesicle maturation, was increased in Cu-treated cells while inhibition of V-ATPase prevented translocation of synaptophysin to LDCV fractions. Cu treatment was found to inhibit release of LDCVs in chromaffin cells due to reduced Ca(2+)-mediated vesicle exocytosis. Our findings demonstrate that elevated Cu can modulate LDCV metabolism potentially resulting in sequestration of Cu in this vesicle pool.

Halide-templated tert-butylethynide Ag14 complexes undergo reversible exchange with copper(I) to afford a series of mixed Ag14-nCun (n = 1-6) species. Up to six silver atoms in the cluster can be replaced with copper(I) to give a core structure featuring a Ag8Cu6 rhombic dodecahedron. These clusters are useful models for investigating the chemical reactivity and photoluminescence of heterometallic d(10)-d(10) systems.

Quadridentate ligand H(2)L binds Cu(I) to form salt [Cu(I)(H(2)L)]BF(4) which undergoes aerial oxidation in solution with isolation of the diamagnetic salt [Cu(II)L˙(-)]BF(4) where π-radical anion L˙(-) is the (1e(-), 2H(+)) oxidation product of H(2)L., (This journal is © The Royal Society of Chemistry 2012)

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive, fatal, motor neuron disease with no effective long-term treatment options. Recently, TDP-43 has been identified as a key protein in the pathogenesis of some cases of ALS. Although the role of TDP-43 in motor neuron degeneration is not yet known, TDP-43 has been shown to accumulate in RNA stress granules (SGs) in cell models and in spinal cord tissue from ALS patients. The SG association may be an early pathological change to TDP-43 metabolism and as such a potential target for therapeutic intervention. Accumulation of TDP-43 in SGs induced by inhibition of mitochondrial activity can be inhibited by modulation of cellular kinase activity. We have also found that treatment of cells and animal models of neurodegeneration, including an ALS model, with bioavailable bis(thiosemicarbazonato)copper(II) complexes (Cu(II)(btsc)s) can modulate kinase activity and induce neuroprotective effects. In this study we examined the effect of diacetylbis(-methylthiosemicarbazonato)copper(II) (Cu(II)(atsm)) and glyoxalbis(-methylthiosemicarbazonato)copper(II) (Cu(II)(gtsm)) on TDP-43-positive SGs induced in SH-SY5Y cells in culture. We found that the Cu(II)(btsc)s blocked formation of TDP-43-and human antigen R (HuR)-positive SGs induced by paraquat. The Cu(II)(btsc)s protected neurons from paraquat-mediated cell death. These effects were associated with inhibition of ERK phosphorylation. Co-treatment of cultures with either Cu(II)(atsm) or an ERK inhibitor, PD98059 both prevented ERK activation and blocked formation of TDP-43-and HuR-positive SGs. Cu(II)(atsm) treatment or ERK inhibition also prevented abnormal ubiquitin accumulation in paraquat-treated cells suggesting a link between prolonged ERK activation and abnormal ubiquitin metabolism in paraquat stress and inhibition by Cu. Moreover, Cu(II)(atsm) reduced accumulation of C-terminal (219-414) TDP-43 in transfected SH-SY5Y cells. These results demonstrate that Cu(II)(btsc) complexes could potentially be developed as a neuroprotective agent to modulate neuronal kinase function and inhibit TDP-43 aggregation. Further studies in TDP-43 animal models are warranted.

Copper complexes of bis(thiosemicarbazone) (Cu(II)(btsc)s) have been studied as potential anti-cancer agents and hypoxia imaging agents. More recently, Cu(II)(btsc)s have been identified as possessing potent neuroprotective properties in cell and animal models of neurodegenerative disease. Despite their broad range of pharmacological activity little is known about how cells traffic Cu(II)(btsc)s and how this relates to potential anti-cancer or neuroprotective outcomes. One method of investigating sub-cellular localization of metal complexes is through confocal fluorescence imaging of the compounds in cells. Previously we harnessed the fluorescence of a pyrene group attached to diacetyl-bis(N4-methylthiosemicarbazonato)copper(ii)) (Cu(II)(atsm)), (Cu(II)L(1)). We demonstrated that Cu(II)L(1) was partially localized to lysosomes in HeLa cancer epithelial cells. Here we extend these studies to map the sub-cellular localization of Cu(II)L(1) in M17 neuroblastoma cells. Treatment of M17 or HeLa cells led to rapid association of the Cu-complex into distinct punctate structures that partially co-localized with lysosomes as assessed by co-localization with Lysotracker and acridine orange. No localization to early or late endosomes, the nucleus or mitochondria was observed. We also found evidence for a limited association of Cu(II)L(1) with autophagic structures, however, this did not account for the majority of the punctate localization of Cu(II)L(1). In addition, Cu(II)L(1) revealed partial localization with ER Tracker and was found to inhibit ER stress induced by tunicamycin. This is the first report to comprehensively characterize the sub-cellular localization of a Cu(II)(atsm) derivative in cells of a neuronal origin and the partial association with lysosome/autophagic structures and the ER may have a potential role in neuroprotection.

Copper (Cu) bis(thiosemicarbazonato) metal complexes [Cu(II)(btsc)s] have unique tumor-imaging and treatment properties and more recently have revealed potent neuroprotective actions in animal and cell models of neurodegeneration. However, despite the continued development of Cu(II)(btsc)s as potential therapeutics or diagnostic agents, little is known of the mechanisms involved in cell uptake, subcellular trafficking, and efflux of this family of compounds. Because of their high lipophilicity, it has been assumed that cellular accumulation is through passive diffusion, although this has not been analyzed in detail. The role of efflux pathways in cell homeostasis of the complexes is also largely unknown. In the present study, we investigated the cellular accumulation of the Cu(II)(btsc) complexes Cu(II)(gtsm) and Cu(II)(atsm) in human neuronal (M17) and glial (U87MG) cell lines under a range of conditions. Collectively, the data strongly suggested that Cu(II)(gtsm) and Cu(II)(atsm) may be taken into these cells by combined passive and facilitated (protein-carrier-mediated) mechanisms. This was supported by strong temperature-dependent changes to the uptake of the complexes and the influence of the cell surface protein on Cu accumulation. We found no evidence to support a role for copper-transporter 1 in accumulation of the compounds. Importantly, our findings also demonstrated that Cu from both Cu(II)(gtsm) and Cu(II)(atsm) was rapidly effluxed from the cells through active mechanisms. Whether this was in the form of released ionic Cu or as an intact metal complex is not known. However, this finding highlighted the difficulty of trying to determine the uptake mechanism of metal complexes when efflux is occurring concomitantly. These findings are the first detailed exploration of the cellular accumulation mechanisms of Cu(II)(btsc)s. The study delineates strategies to investigate the uptake and efflux mechanisms of metal complexes in cells, while highlighting specific difficulties and challenges that need to be considered before drawing definitive conclusions.

Silver acetylides and organic azides react under copper(I) catalysis to afford 1,4-disubstituted 1,2,3-triazoles. Mechanistic studies implicate a process involving transmetallation to copper acetylides prior to cycloaddition. This work demonstrates that silver acetylides serve as suitable precursors for entry into copper-mediated coupling reactions. This methodology allows the incorporation of volatile and difficult-to-handle acetylenes into the triazole core.

The molecules known as bis(thiosemicarbazones) derived from 1,2-diones can act as tetradentate ligands for Cu(II), forming stable, neutral complexes. As a family, these complexes possess fascinating biological activity. This critical review presents an historical perspective of their progression from potential chemotherapeutics through to more recent applications in nuclear medicine. Methods of synthesis are presented followed by studies focusing on their potential application as anti-cancer agents and more recent investigations into their potential as therapeutics for Alzheimer's disease. The Cu(II) complexes are of sufficient stability to be used to coordinate copper radioisotopes for application in diagnostic and therapeutic radiopharmaceuticals. Detailed understanding of the coordination chemistry has allowed careful manipulation of the metal based properties to engineer specific biological activities. Perhaps the most promising complex radiolabelled with copper radioisotopes to date is Cu(II)(atsm), which has progressed to clinical trials in humans (162 references).

Cognitive decline associated with Alzheimer's disease appears to be related to the hyper-phosphorylation of the protein tau as a consequence of increased activity of glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK3β), and subsequent formation of neurotoxic neurofibrillary tangles. Abberant metal ion homeostasis, particularly involving copper has been implicitly linked to the pathogenesis of the disease. Increasing intracellular copper concentrations has been found to trigger pathways that result in inhibition of GSK3β. The syntheses and characterisation of tetradentate hybrid hydroxyquinoline-thiosemicarbazone proligands is presented. The ligands form stable complexes with Cu(II) where the copper ion is four coordinate and essentially square planar as characterised by single crystal X-ray crystallography. The reduction of the metal ion to Cu(I) has been studied by electrochemical techniques and occurs at potentials that permit intracellular reduction. The new complexes show class dependent cell membrane permeability in neuronal-like SH-SY5Y cells with subsequent increases in intracellular copper concentrations. The increased intracellular copper results in a dose-dependent inhibition (phosphorylation) of GSK3β.

There are several isotopes of copper and rhenium that are of interest in the development of new molecular imaging or radiotherapeutic agents. This perspective article highlights the role of coordination chemistry in the design of copper and rhenium radiopharmaceuticals engineered to selectively target tissue of interest such as cancer cells or pathological features associated with Alzheimer's disease. The coordination chemistry of copper bis(thiosemicarbazone) derivatives and copper macrocyclic complexes is discussed in terms of their potential application as targeted positron emission tomography tracers for non-invasive diagnostic imaging. A range of rhenium complexes with different ligands with rhenium in different oxidation states are introduced and their potential to be translated to new radiotherapeutic agents discussed.

Brain tumors such as neuroblastomas and gliomas are often refractory to current treatments. Development of metal-based drugs may offer an alternative approach due to the ability to deliver radionuclides or cytotoxic metals to the tumor. Previous studies have shown that diacetyl-bis(N(4)-methylthiosemicarbazonato)-copper(II) (Cu(II)(atsm)) can selectively target hypoxic tumors and this feature has been utilized for development of imaging and radiotherapy. However, we have recently shown that glyoxal-bis(N(4)-methylthiosemicarbazonato)-copper(II) (Cu(II)(gtsm)) can target the brain in animal models of neurodegeneration. Unlike Cu(II)(atsm), Cu(II)(gtsm) is able to release Cu intracellularly under normoxic conditions. Glyoxal-bis(thiosemicarbazones) have reported anticancer effects but little is known about the cellular mechanisms involved. Therefore, in this study, we used protein microarray analysis to investigate the effect of Cu(II)(gtsm) on neuroblastoma cell growth in vitro. Treatment of the human neuroblastoma cell line BE(2)-M17, resulted in cell cycle arrest as assessed by fluorescent activated cell sorting (FACS) analysis. Rapidly arrested growth was not associated with onset of apoptosis. Instead, protein microarray analysis revealed that Cu(II)(gtsm) rapidly and potently reduced cyclin D1 expression, while increasing Kip2 expression. Other changes observed were decreased Cdk7 expression and activation of CHK2. These changes may be associated with the cell cycle arrest. We also observed a potent decrease of total and phosphorylated insulin-like growth factor receptor (IGF-IR) by Cu(II)(gtsm) which is associated with modulation of cyclin D1 expression. Our studies reveal important insights into the potential anticancer activity of Cu(II)(gtsm). Further studies are needed to examine the therapeutic potential of Cu(II)(gtsm) and other bis(thiosemicarbazonato) metal complexes as metallo-drugs for treatment of systemic or brain tumors.

New bifunctional derivatives of diacetyl-bis(4-methylthiosemicarbazone) (H(2)atsm) have been prepared by a selective transamination reaction of a new dissymmetric bis(thiosemicarbazone) precursor H(2)L(1). The new derivatives contain an aliphatic carboxylic acid (H(2)L(2) and H(2)L(3)), t-butyl carbamate (H(2)L(4)), or ammonium ion (H(2)L(5)) functional group. The new ligands and copper(II) complexes have been characterized by NMR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, and microanalysis. The complex Cu(II)(L(4)) was structurally characterized by X-ray crystallography and shows the metal center to be in an N(2)S(2) distorted square planar coordination geometry. Electrochemical measurements show that the copper(II) complexes undergo a reversible reduction attributable to a Cu(II)/Cu(I) process. The ligands and the copper(II) complexes featuring a carboxylic acid functional group have been conjugated to the tumor targeting peptide bombesin(7-14)-NH(2). The bifunctional peptide conjugates were radiolabeled with copper-64 in the interest of developing new positron emission tomography (PET) imaging agents. The conjugates were radiolabeled with copper-64 rapidly in high radiochemical purity (>95%) at room temperature under mild conditions and were stable in a cysteine and histidine challenge study.

The synthesis of new copper(II) bis(thiosemicarbazonato) complexes with an appended pyrene chromophore and their zinc(II) analogues is reported. The new proligands and their copper(II) and zinc(II) complexes were characterised by a combination of NMR, EPR, high performance liquid chromatography, mass spectrometry, electronic spectroscopy and electrochemical measurements. The new copper(II) complexes are fluorescent as a consequence of an appended pyrene substituent that is separated from the sulphur coordinating to the metal ion by five bonds. The emission from the pyrene substituent is concentration- and solvent-dependent with characteristic formation of excimer aggregates. A radioactive (64)Cu complex has been prepared. Cell permeability, intracellular distribution and importantly the ability to cross the nuclear membrane to target DNA were investigated using confocal fluorescence microscopy in a human cancer cell line under normal oxygen conditions and hypoxic conditions. In both cases, there was no evidence of uptake of the copper(II) bis(thiosemicarbazonato) complexes in the area of the cell nucleus.

Bis(thiosemicarbazonato) metal complexes (M(II)(btsc)) have demonstrated potential neuroprotective activity in cell and animal models of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Metal complexes can activate the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), leading to inhibition of amyloid peptide accumulation in neuronal cells. As glial cells also have an important role in modulating neuronal health and survival in AD, we examined the effect of M(II)(btsc) on activity of EGFR in an astroglial cell line. Our findings reveal potent activation of glial EGFR by glyoxalbis(N(4)-methylthiosemicarbazonato)Cu(II)] (Cu(II)(gtsm)). Activation of EGFR by Cu(II)(gtsm) involved phosphorylation of multiple tyrosine residues and was mediated by a cognate ligand-independent process involving M(II)(btsc) inhibition of protein tyrosine phosphatase (PTP) activity. EGFR activation resulted in release of growth factors and cytokines with potential modulatory effects on neuronal function. These studies provide an important insight into the mechanism of action of a neuroprotective M(II)(btsc) and provide a basis for future studies into this novel approach to AD therapy.

A new sarcophagine cage amine ligand with a pendent carboxylate functional group has been synthesised; the ligand has been conjugated to tumour targeting peptides ([Tyr3]-octreotate and [Lys3]-bombesin) and the conjugates radiolabelled with copper-64.

Cognitive decline in Alzheimer's disease (AD) involves pathological accumulation of synaptotoxic amyloid-beta (Abeta) oligomers and hyperphosphorylated tau. Because recent evidence indicates that glycogen synthase kinase 3beta (GSK3beta) activity regulates these neurotoxic pathways, we developed an AD therapeutic strategy to target GSK3beta. The strategy involves the use of copper-bis(thiosemicarbazonoto) complexes to increase intracellular copper bioavailability and inhibit GSK3beta through activation of an Akt signaling pathway. Our lead compound Cu(II)(gtsm) significantly inhibited GSK3beta in the brains of APP/PS1 transgenic AD model mice. Cu(II)(gtsm) also decreased the abundance of Abeta trimers and phosphorylated tau, and restored performance of AD mice in the Y-maze test to levels expected for cognitively normal animals. Improvement in the Y-maze correlated directly with decreased Abeta trimer levels. This study demonstrates that increasing intracellular copper bioavailability can restore cognitive function by inhibiting the accumulation of neurotoxic Abeta trimers and phosphorylated tau.

The CuI complex of the 'click' ligand tris(benzyltriazolylmethyl)amine is an unusual dinuclear dication with one triazole unit bridging two metal centers, and is an effective catalyst for the 'click' cycloaddition reaction.

Bis(thiosemicarbazonato) complexes Cu(II)(Btsc) have attracted interest as promising metallodrugs and, in particular, as copper radiopharmaceuticals. Prototypes Cu(Atsm) and Cu(Gtsm) are membrane-permeable, but their metabolisms in cells are distinctly different: copper that is delivered by Cu(Gtsm) is trapped nonselectively in all cells, whereas copper that is delivered by Cu(Atsm) is retained selectively in hypoxic cells but is "washed out" readily in normal cells. We have studied copper-transfer reactions of these two complexes under various conditions, aiming to model their cellular chemistry. In Me2SO, both complexes exhibited reversible one-electron-reduction processes with Cu(Atsm) being more difficult to reduce than Cu(Gtsm) (E(1/2)'=-0.60 and -0.44 V, respectively, vs AgCl/Ag). Upon introduction of an aqueous buffer into Me2SO, the electrochemical reduction remained chemically reversible for Cu(Atsm) but became irreversible for Cu(Gtsm). However, the estimated difference in their reduction potentials did not change. Chromophoric ligand anions bicinchonate (Bca) and bathocuproine disulfonate (Bcs) were used as Cu(I) indicators to trace the destinations of copper in the reactions and to mimic cellular Cu(I)-binding components ("sinks"). While both BtscH2 ligands have high affinities for Cu(I) (KD in the picomolar range), they cannot compete with Cu(I) sinks such as the copper-binding proteins Atx1 and Ctr1c (or a mimic such as Bcs). In the presence of these proteins, reduction of Cu(II)(Btsc) leads to irreversible transfer of copper to the protein ligands. Endogenous reductants ascorbate and glutathione can reduce Cu(II)(Gtsm) in the presence of such protein ligands but cannot reduce Cu(II)(Atsm). These properties establish a strong correlation between the contrasting cellular retention properties of these complexes and their different reduction potentials. The endogenous reductants in normal cells appear to be able to reduce Cu(II)(Gtsm) but not Cu(II)(Atsm), allowing the latter to be washed out. The more reducing environment of hypoxic cells leads to reduction of Cu(II)(Atsm) and retention of its copper.

Copper and zinc play important roles in Alzheimer disease pathology with recent reports describing potential therapeutics based on modulation of metal bioavailability. We examined the ability of a range of metal bis(thiosemicarbazonato) complexes (MII(btsc), where M=CuII or ZnII) to increase intracellular metal levels in Chinese hamster ovary cells overexpressing amyloid precursor protein (APP-CHO) and the subsequent effect on extracellular levels of amyloid-beta peptide (Abeta). The CuII(btsc) complexes were engineered to be either stable to both a change in oxidation state and dissociation of metal or susceptible to intracellular reduction and dissociation of metal. Treatment of APP-CHO cells with stable complexes resulted in elevated levels of intracellular copper with no effect on the detected levels of Abeta. Treatment with complexes susceptible to intracellular reduction increased intracellular copper levels but also resulted in a dose-dependent reduction in the levels of monomeric Abeta. Treatment with less stable ZnII(btsc) complexes increased intracellular zinc levels with a subsequent dose-dependent depletion of monomeric Abeta levels. The increased levels of intracellular bioavailable copper and zinc initiated a signaling cascade involving activation of phosphoinositol 3-kinase and c-Jun N-terminal kinase. Inhibition of these enzymes prevented Abeta depletion induced by the MII(btsc) complexes. Inhibition of metalloproteases also partially restored Abeta levels, implicating metal-driven metalloprotease activation in the extracellular monomeric Abeta depletion. However, a role for alternative metal-induced Abeta metabolism has not been ruled out. These studies demonstrate that MII(btsc) complexes have potential for Alzheimer disease therapy.

The epidermal growth factor receptor is a receptor tyrosine kinase expressed in a range of tissues and cell-types. Activation of the epidermal growth factor receptor by a number of ligands induces downstream signalling that modulates critical cell functions including growth, survival and differentiation. Abnormal epidermal growth factor receptor expression and activation is also involved in a number of cancers. In addition to its cognate ligands, the epidermal growth factor receptor can be activated by metals such as zinc (Zn) and copper (Cu). Due to the important role of these metals in a number of diseases including neurodegenerative disorders, therapeutic approaches are being developed based on the use of lipid permeable metal-complexing molecules. While these agents are showing promising results in animal models and clinical trials, little is known about the effects of metal-ligand complexes on cell signalling pathways. In this study, we investigated the effects of clioquinol (CQ)-metal complexes on activation of epidermal growth factor receptor. We show here that CQ-Cu complexes induced potent epidermal growth factor receptor phosphorylation resulting in downstream activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase. Similar levels of epidermal growth factor receptor activation were observed with alternative lipid permeable metal-ligands including neocuproine and pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate. We found that CQ-Cu complexes induced a significant reduction in the level of extracellular Abeta1-40 in cell culture. Inhibition of epidermal growth factor receptor activation by PD153035 blocked extracellular signal-regulated kinase phosphorylation and restored Abeta1-40 levels. Activation of the epidermal growth factor receptor by CQ-Cu was mediated through up-regulation of src kinase activity by a cognate ligand-independent process involving membrane integrins. These findings provide the first evidence that metal-ligand complexes can activate the epidermal growth factor receptor with potentially neuroprotective effects.

Copper is essential for some of the enzymes that have a role in brain metabolism. Sophisticated mechanisms balance copper import and export to ensure proper nutrient levels (homeostasis) while minimizing toxic effects. Several neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer's disease (AD) are characterized by modified copper homeostasis. This change seems to contribute either directly or indirectly to increased oxidative stress, an important factor in neuronal toxicity. When coupled to misfolded proteins, this modified copper homeostasis appears to be an important factor in the pathological progression of AD.

Two new bifunctional chelators that are derivatives of the bis(thiosemicarbazone) ATSMH(2) proligand have been prepared, one with two phenyl carboxylate substituents on the exocyclic nitrogens (L(1)H(2)) and one with a single phenyl carboxylate (L(2)H(2)). The new ligands have been characterised by NMR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry and in the case of L(1)H(2) by X-ray crystallography. The copper, nickel and zinc complexes of the new ligands have been synthesised and characterised. Electrochemical measurements show that the copper(II) complexes undergo a reversible reduction attributable to a Cu(II)/Cu(I) process. The new proligands have been tethered to the N-alpha-Boc-protected amino acids lysine and ornithine using solution and solid phase methods. The new amino acid conjugates form copper complexes and the complexes have been characterised by mass spectrometry and electronic spectroscopy. The bifunctional chelator L(2)H(2) has been conjugated to the tumour targeting peptide octreotide and the new ATSMH(2)-octreotide conjugate and its copper complex have been characterized by mass spectrometry. These new systems have the potential to be used for new targeted copper radiopharmaceuticals for imaging and therapy.

Two new thiosemicarbazone-pyridylhydrazine (THYNIC) hybrid ligands have been synthesized. Copper(II) and copper(I) complexes of the ligands have been prepared and characterized by X-ray crystallography. Cyclic voltammetry measurements show that the copper(II) complexes undergo quasi-reversible reductions at biologically accessible potentials. One of the ligands, bearing a pendant carboxylate arm, has been conjugated to N-alpha-(tert-butoxycarbonyl)-L-lysine.

P-glycoprotein (P-gp), expressed at the blood-brain barrier (BBB), is critical in preventing brain access to substrate drugs and effluxing amyloid beta (Aβ), a contributor to Alzheimer's disease (AD). Strategies to regulate P-gp expression therefore may impact central nervous system (CNS) drug delivery and brain Aβ levels. As we have demonstrated that the copper complex copper diacetyl bis(4-methyl-3-thiosemicarbazone) (Cu(ATSM)) increases P-gp expression and function in human brain endothelial cells, the present study assessed the impact of Cu(ATSM) on expression and function of P-gp in mouse brain endothelial cells (mBECs) and capillaries in vivo, as well as in peripheral organs. Isolated mBECs treated with Cu(ATSM) (100 nM for 24 h) exhibited a 1.6-fold increase in P-gp expression and a 20% reduction in accumulation of the P-gp substrate rhodamine 123. Oral administration of Cu(ATSM) (30 mg/kg/day) for 28 days led to a 1.5 & 1.3-fold increase in brain microvascular and hepatic expression of P-gp, respectively, and a 20% reduction in BBB transport of [3H]-digoxin. A metallomic analysis showed a 3.5 and 19.9-fold increase in Cu levels in brain microvessels and livers of Cu(ATSM)-treated mice. Our findings demonstrate that Cu(ATSM) increases P-gp expression and function at the BBB in vivo, with implications for CNS drug delivery and clearance of Aβ in AD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neuroinflammation has a major role in several brain disorders including Alzheimer's disease (AD), yet at present there are no effective anti-neuroinflammatory therapeutics available. Copper(II) complexes of bis(thiosemicarbazones) (CuII(gtsm) and CuII(atsm)) have broad therapeutic actions in preclinical models of neurodegeneration, with CuII(atsm) demonstrating beneficial outcomes on neuroinflammatory markers in vitro and in vivo. These findings suggest that copper(II) complexes could be harnessed as a new approach to modulate immune function in neurodegenerative diseases. In this study, we examined the anti-neuroinflammatory action of several low-molecular-weight, charge-neutral and lipophilic copper(II) complexes. Our analysis revealed that one compound, a thiosemicarbazone–pyridylhydrazone copper(II) complex (CuL5), delivered copper into cells in vitro and increased the concentration of copper in the brain in vivo. In a primary murine microglia culture, CuL5 was shown to decrease secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokine macrophage chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP-1) and expression of tumor necrosis factor alpha (Tnf), increase expression of metallothionein (Mt1), and modulate expression of Alzheimer's disease-associated risk genes, Trem2 and Cd33. CuL5 also improved the phagocytic function of microglia in vitro. In 5xFAD model AD mice, treatment with CuL5 led to an improved performance in a spatial working memory test, while, interestingly, increased accumulation of amyloid plaques in treated mice. These findings demonstrate that CuL5 can induce anti-neuroinflammatory effects in vitro and provide selective benefit in vivo. The outcomes provide further support for the development of copper-based compounds to modulate neuroinflammation in brain diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Molecules containing lysine‐ureido‐glutamate functional groups bind to the active site of prostate specific membrane antigen, which is overexpressed in prostate cancer. To prepare copper radiopharmaceuticals for the diagnosis and therapy of prostate cancer, macrobicyclic sarcophagine ligands tethered to either one or two lysine‐ureido‐glutamate functional groups through an appropriate linker have been prepared. Sarcophagine ligands can be readily radiolabeled with positron‐emitting copper‐64 at room temperature. The bivalent agent, in which two targeting groups are tethered to a single copper complex, dramatically outperforms the monomeric agent with respect to tumor uptake and retention. The high tumor uptake, low background, and prolonged tumor retention, even at 24 hours post injection, suggest the bivalent agent is a promising diagnostic for prostate cancer and could be used for prospective dosimetry for therapy with a copper‐67 variant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Neuroinflammation and biometal dyshomeostasis are key pathological features of several neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease (AD). Inflammation and biometals are linked at the molecular level through regulation of metal buffering proteins such as the metallothioneins. Even though the molecular connections between metals and inflammation have been demonstrated, little information exists on the effect of copper modulation on brain inflammation. Methods: We demonstrate the immunomodulatory potential of the copper bis(thiosemicarbazone) complex CuII(atsm) in an neuroinflammatory model in vivo and describe its anti-inflammatory effects on microglia and astrocytes in vitro. Results: By using a sophisticated in vivo magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) approach, we report the efficacy of CuII(atsm) in reducing acute cerebrovascular inflammation caused by peripheral administration of bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS). CuII(atsm) also induced anti-inflammatory outcomes in primary microglia [significant reductions in nitric oxide (NO), monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP-1), and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)] and astrocytes [significantly reduced NO, MCP-1, and interleukin 6 (IL-6)] in vitro. These anti-inflammatory actions were associated with increased cellular copper levels and increased the neuroprotective protein metallothionein-1 (MT1) in microglia and astrocytes. Conclusion: The beneficial effects of CuII(atsm) on the neuroimmune system suggest copper complexes are potential therapeutics for the treatment of neuroinflammatory conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A unique two-step modular system for site-specific antibody modification and conjugation is reported. The first step of this approach uses enzymatic bioconjugation with the transpeptidase Sortase A for incorporation of strained cyclooctyne functional groups. The second step of this modular approach involves the azide-alkyne cycloaddition click reaction. The versatility of the two-step approach has been exemplified by the selective incorporation of fluorescent dyes and a positron-emitting copper-64 radiotracer for fluorescence and positron-emission tomography imaging of activated platelets, platelet aggregates, and thrombi, respectively. This flexible and versatile approach could be readily adapted to incorporate a large array of tailor-made functional groups using reliable click chemistry whilst preserving the activity of the antibody or other sensitive biological macromolecules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New macrobicyclic cage amine or “sarcophagine” (sar) bifunctional chelators have been synthesised that form copper complexes of exceptional in vivo stability and incorporate isothiocyanate (-NCS) functional groups for conjugation to an antibody. The chelators were synthesised from the methyl-capped complex [MgII(CH3)(NH2)sar]2+. Coordination of MgII within the cavity of the cage amine ligand protects the secondary amine atoms from reacting with the -NCS functional groups. Two different [MgII(NCS-sar)]2+ derivatives were conjugated to the HER2/neu-targeting antibody trastuzumab and the progress of the reaction monitored by electrospray mass spectrometry. The MgII ion was removed from the immunoconjugates under mild conditions (0.1 M citrate buffer, pH 6). Labelling of the (CH3)(p-NCS-Ph)sar-trastuzumab conjugate with 64CuII, a radioisotope suitable for positron emission tomography (PET), was fast (∼5 min) and easily performed at room temperature with high radiochemical purity (＞95%). Biodistribution and PET imaging studies in vivo showed that 64Cu-labelled (CH3)(p-NCS-Ph)sar-trastuzumab maintained high stability under physiological conditions with high and selective uptake in a HER2-positive cancer cell line. The stability of the copper complex and the 12.7 h half-life of the radioisotope allows clear visualisation of tumours out to 48 h. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The enzyme-mediated site-specific bioconjugation of a radioactive metal complex to a single-chain antibody using the transpeptidase sortase A is reported. Cage amine sarcophagine ligands that were designed to function as substrates for the sortase A mediated bioconjugation to antibodies were synthesized and enzymatically conjugated to a single-chain variable fragment. The antibody fragment scFvanti-LIBS targets ligand-induced binding sites (LIBS) on the glycoprotein receptor GPIIb/IIIa, which is present on activated platelets. The immunoconjugates were radiolabeled with the positron-emitting isotope 64Cu. The new radiolabeled conjugates were shown to bind selectively to activated platelets. The diagnostic potential of the most promising conjugate was demonstrated in an in vivo model of carotid artery thrombosis using positron emission tomography. This approach gives homogeneous products through site-specific enzyme-mediated conjugation and should be broadly applicable to other metal complexes and proteins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive paralyzing disease characterized by tissue oxidative damage and motor neuron degeneration. This study investigated the in vivo effect of diacetylbis(N(4)-methylthiosemicarbazonato) copper(II) (CuII(atsm)), which is an orally bioavailable, blood-brain barrier-permeable complex. In vitro the compound inhibits the action of peroxynitrite on Cu,Zn-superoxide dismutase (SOD1) and subsequent nitration of cellular proteins. Oral treatment of transgenic SOD1G93A mice with CuII(atsm) at presymptomatic and symptomatic ages was performed. The mice were examined for improvement in lifespan and motor function, as well as histological and biochemical changes to key disease markers. Systemic treatment of SOD1G93A mice significantly delayed onset of paralysis and prolonged lifespan, even when administered to symptomatic animals. Consistent with the properties of this compound, treated mice had reduced protein nitration and carbonylation, as well as increased antioxidant activity in spinal cord. Treatment also significantly preserved motor neurons and attenuated astrocyte and microglial activation in mice. Furthermore, CuII(atsm) prevented the accumulation of abnormally phosphorylated and fragmented TAR DNA-binding protein-43 (TDP-43) in spinal cord, a protein pivotal to the development of ALS. CuII(atsm) therefore represents a potential new class of neuroprotective agents targeting multiple major disease pathways of motor neurons with therapeutic potential for ALS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The synthesis of new copper(II) bis(thiosemicarbazonato) complexes with an appended pyrene chromophore and their zinc(II) analogues is reported. The new proligands and their copper(II) and zinc(II) complexes were characterised by a combination of NMR, EPR, high performance liquid chromatography, mass spectrometry, electronic spectroscopy and electrochemical measurements. The new copper(II) complexes are fluorescent as a consequence of an appended pyrene substituent that is separated from the sulphur coordinating to the metal ion by five bonds. The emission from the pyrene substituent is concentration- and solvent-dependent with characteristic formation of excimer aggregates. A radioactive 64Cu complex has been prepared. Cell permeability, intracellular distribution and importantly the ability to cross the nuclear membrane to target DNA were investigated using confocal fluorescence microscopy in a human cancer cell line under normal oxygen conditions and hypoxic conditions. In both cases, there was no evidence of uptake of the copper(II) bis(thiosemicarbazonato) complexes in the area of the cell nucleus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease characterized by numerous pathological features including the accumulation of neurotoxic amyloid-β (Aβ) peptide. There is currently no effective therapy for AD, but the development of therapeutic strategies that target the cell membrane is gaining increased interest. The amyloid precursor protein (APP) from which Aβ is formed is a membrane-bound protein, and Aβ production and toxicity are both membrane mediated events. This review describes the critical role of cell membranes in AD with particular emphasis on how the composition and structure of the membrane and its specialized regions may influence toxic or benign Aβ/APP pathways in AD. The putative role of copper (Cu) in AD is also discussed, and we highlight how targeting the cell membrane with Cu complexes has therapeutic potential in AD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]