A review of the therapeutic properties of dithiocarbamates

Abstract

The persistence of infectious diseases that continue to plague the world, as well as the formation of harmful substances within the human body, such as free radicals and reactive oxygen species (ROS) have sparked new research. Thus, the need for innovative approaches for developing new or modification of existing therapeutic agents. The design of biologically important metal complexes of dithiocarbamates (DTCs) has been made possible by recent advancements in innovative research. Dithiocarbamates are reduced thiuram disulfides with excellent complexing capabilities and have various applications. They are potent and work in tandem with the core metal ions of coordinating compounds to produce synergistic effects. Dithiocarbamates have many uses, including as antidotes for metal poisoning, cisplatin or carboplatin toxicity, and clinical trials for cancer, Lyme disease, human immunodeficiency virus and antibiotics. They exert anti-oxidant effect in cells. The understanding of the mechanisms of action of this therapeutic agent is important in drug repurposing. This review highlights the protective and therapeutic properties of dithiocarbamate compounds in biological systems.