Anti-Inflammatory and Antithrombotic Potential of Metal-Based Complexes and Porphyrins

Abstract

Inflammation and thrombosis are implicated in several chronic disorders. Recent studies have outlined the way in which several compounds can offer protection against inflammation. Within this comprehensive review the so-far reported anti-inflammatory health-promoting effects of several metal-based complexes, both in vitro and in vivo, are thoroughly presented. These metal-based compounds usually interfere with various biochemical processes associated with the inflammatory response and thrombus formation and become capable of inhibiting these biochemical pathways with proposed health benefits. Emphasis is given to the multifaceted actions of metal-based complexes that have exhibited potent anti-inflammatory and antithrombotic activities against the inflammatory mediator, platelet-activating factor (PAF), and its thrombo-inflammatory signaling, as well as on their anti-platelet and antitumor health promoting properties. Furthermore, the enhancement of the anti-inflammatory potency of well-established bioactive compounds by their incorporation as ligands in several metal-based complexes is discussed. Metal-based complexes bearing natural anti-inflammatory bioactives are also outlined. Characteristic examples of both free and metal-based porphyrins are explored. These compounds are recognized to have anti-inflammatory and antithrombotic assets, in addition to other pleiotropic advantages including antibacterial or anticancer actions. Additionally, applications of metal complexes in various models of inflammatory and thrombotic complications are demonstrated. The combined results of this study show that further research is required towards the preparation of several metal-based complexes with improved pharmacological profiles. Finally, restrictions on the application of these metal-based compounds are also covered, along with their prospects for the future and the need for additional study in order to improve their efficacy and safety.