Nuclear localization of dirhodium(ii) complexes in breast cancer cells by X-ray fluorescence microscopy.

The cellular distribution of three dirhodium(II) complexes with a paddlewheel structure was investigated using synchrotron-based X-ray fluorescence microscopy and cell viability studies. Complexes with vacant axial sites displayed cytotoxic activity and nuclear accumulation whereas complexes in which the axial positions were blocked showed little to no toxicity nor uptake.