Ruthenium-indolizinone complexes as a new class of metalated heterocyclic compounds: insight into unconventional alkyne activation pathways, revelation of unexpected electronic properties and exploration of medicinal application

The two series of ruthenium-indolizinone complexes prepared by Ru-mediated cyclization of pyridine-tethered alkynes represent the first examples of metalated indolizinone complexes. Joint experimental-theoretical investigation suggests an unconventional 5- endo-dig cyclization pathway as their formation mechanism. They also exhibit moderate cytotoxicity against several human cancer cell lines. The first examples of metal-indolizinone complexes prepared by Ru-assisted activation of pyridine-tethered alkynes exhibit moderate cytotoxicity against several human cancer cell lines.