Has Ferrocene Really Delivered Its Role in Accentuating the Bioactivity of Organic Scaffolds?

Ferrocene is an important structural core in bioorganometallic chemistry because of its inherent stability, excellent redox properties, and low toxicity. Ferroquine and ferrocifen are two of the most notable contributions of ferrocene to medicinal chemistry with remarkable antimalarial and anticancer properties. The improved medicinal properties of these drug candidates highlight the impact that ferrocene can have on the molecular and biological properties of the bioactive compounds. In this Perspective, we investigate the scope and limitations of ferrocene incorporation into organic compounds/natural products on their mode of action and biological activities. We have also discussed the detailed role of ferrocene modifications in influencing the anticancer, antimalarial, and antimicrobial properties of various bioactive moieties to design safer and promising ferrocene-based drugs.

Automated summary

Ferrocene, with its inherent stability, excellent redox properties, and low toxicity, plays an important role in bioorganometallic chemistry. The development of remarkable antimalarial and anticancer drugs from ferrocene demonstrates its significant contribution to medicinal chemistry. Incorporating ferrocene into organic compounds and natural products can influence the mode of action and biological activities, highlighting its potential in designing safer and promising drugs.