Reactions of the semiquinone free radicals of anti‐tumour agents with oxygen and iron complexes

Abstract

The rates of reaction of the semiquinone radicals of adriamycin and mitomycin C with oxygen and several iron (III) complexes have been determined. These rates have been used to explain enhanced free radical damage produced by semiquinone radicals in a model system and to assess the feasibility of these types of reactions occurring in hypoxic cells.