Chiral zinc complexes with terpene derivatives of ethylenediamine: synthesis and biological activity

Six new chiral zinc( ii ) complexes 1–6 based on ethylenediamine derivatives of terpenes were synthesized and characterized. The molecular structure of complex 2 was established by X-ray diffraction analysis. The modulating effect of complexes 1–6 on the functional state of mitochondria, which are organelles playing an utterly important role in maintaining the energy balance of cells, transfer of genetic material, and regulation of the processes of triggering the cell death by apoptosis, autophagy, and necrosis, was studied. It is shown that synthesized zinc complexes lead to depolarization of the mitochondrial membrane, an increase in the threshold of sensitivity of the organelles to calcium-induced opening of the mitochondrial permeability transition pores, and disruption of the operation of the respiratory chain complexes in these organelles. Such a dysfunctional state of mitochondria is one of the main causes of cell death through apoptosis due to the release of various proapoptotic factors into the intracellular space. In this regard, the newly synthesized zinc complexes 1–6 can be considered as destructive agents aimed at triggering cell death cascades by affecting mitochondrial functions. These properties are of paramount importance when searching for potential drugs with possible antitumor, antiprotozoal, or antifungal activity.