In vitro interaction of 5‐aminoorotic acid and its gallium(III) complex with superoxide radical, generated by two model systems
Increased levels of the superoxide radical are associated with oxidative damage to healthy tissues and with elimination of malignant cells in a living body. It is desirable that a chemotherapeutic combines pro‐oxidant behavior around and inside tumors with antioxidant action near healthy cells. A complex consisting of a pro‐oxidant cation and antioxidant ligands could be a potential anticancer agent. Ga(III) salts are known anticancer substances, and 5‐aminoorotic acid (HAOA) is a ligand with antioxidant properties.