Different aspects of transition metal chemistry have been widely studied over the past decades because of their interesting structures, chemical reactivity and properties. Historically, Lewis acidic metal coordination complexes have played a pivotal and defining role in the broad field of molecular recognition and more specifically in the sensing and sequestration of biologically relevant anionic species. More recently, with the expanding interest in chemical biology, there has been resurgence in the use of coordination complexes, specifically, through their application as medicinal therapeutics and chemo/biosensors. From the disruption of oncogenic protein–protein interactions to the fluorescent sensing of PTP1B phosphatase enzyme activity, the powerful binding potency of coordination complexes has been harnessed to great effect. Herein, we will review the recent advances in the application of coordination complexes in medicinal and chemo/biosensory roles over the last decade. In particular, this review will focus on Cu (II) and Zn (II) coordination complexes.
Loading....