Cu(I)-ionophores as novel anti-cancer therapy: investigation of the cell-dependent mechanisms of action

Copper is an essential metal for humans, but is also involved in tumour development and proliferation, through only partially known processes. In the quest for novel paradigms in cancer therapy, we developed Cu(I)-ionophores, i.e. transmembrane transporters that displace cellular Cu pools, inducing cancer cell death. We propose to investigate the mechanism of action of these molecules in hepatic and pulmonary cancer cells. Nano-XRF imaging will allow us to visualize and quantify the subcellular distribution of Cu in cancer cells and its modifications induced by Cu(I)-ionophores, whereas nano-X-ray Absorption Spectroscopy will expose the chemistry of Cu in selected regions of treated and untreated cancer cells. Understanding the mechanism of action will foster the development of this new class of anti-cancer drugs.