Targeting tumors and inflammation: A quinoline–chalcone ruthenium complex with therapeutic promise

Head and neck cancers remain among the most challenging malignancies to treat and are often linked to lifestyle-related risk factors such as smoking and alcohol consumption. These factors not only initiate tumor development but also promote chronic inflammation and activate key oncogenic pathways, including NF-κB signaling and pro-angiogenic cytokines IL-6 and IL-8. Research into emerging therapeutic approaches has identified metal-based compounds-especially ruthenium(II) complexes-as promising alternatives to traditional platinum-based drugs. In this study, we report the design, synthesis and X-RAY characterization of a ruthenium(II) complex incorporating a quinoline-chalcone hybrid ligand, designed for enhanced anticancer and anti-inflammatory potential. The resulting compound, referred to as complex 2, demonstrated significant activity against HPV-negative head and neck cancer cell lines. It exhibited strong cytostatic, antiproliferative, and migrastatic effects, along marked suppression of NF-κB activation and a notable decrease in IL-6 and IL-8 levels due to direct interactions. These findings highlight complex 2 as a promising multitarget agent capable of targeting both tumor progression and the inflammatory microenvironment. Overall, complex 2 is a potential candidate for combination therapies targeting head and neck cancer.