Solvolysis of the Tumor-Inhibiting Ru(III)-Complex trans-Tetrachlorobis(Indazole)Ruthenate(III)

The ruthenium(III) complex Hlnd trans-[RuCl(4),(ind)(2)], with two trans-standing indazole (ind) ligands bound to ruthenium via nitrogen, shows remarkable activity in different tumor models in vitro and in vivo. The solvolysis of the complex trans-[RuCl(4),(ind)(2)](-) has been investigated by means of spectroscopic techniques (UV/vis, NMR)in different solvents. We investigated the indazolium as well as the sodium salt, the latter showing improved solubility in water. In aqueous acetonitrile and ethanol the solvolysis results in one main solvento complex. The hydrolysis of the complex is more complicated and depends on the pH of the solution as well as on the buffer system.