Advancing Polyoxometalates in Bioinorganic Chemistry: Applications and Biological Interactions

Bioinorganic chemistry of polyoxometalates (POMs) is a rapidly evolving field that explores the unique properties and applications of these polynuclear metal-oxo clusters. POMs are composed of transition metal oxo anions, typically involving elements such as vanadium, tantalum, niobium, chromium, molybdenum, and tungsten. These compounds can incorporate heteroatoms and form hybrid metal-organic frameworks, making them highly versatile. Recent studies have highlighted the potential of POMs in biological and medicinal chemistry, particularly due to their ability to bind effectively to biomacromolecules like proteins, enzymes, and membrane structures. Despite significant progress, there remain gaps in understanding the full scope of their bioactivity, stability under biological conditions, and potential toxicological effects. Addressing these gaps is crucial for advancing the practical applications of POMs in medicine and biology.

This research topic aims to promote polyoxometalates as highly effective bio-tools and to elucidate their benefits when introduced into biological systems. The primary objectives include presenting recent advances in the applications of POMs in medicinal chemistry, showcasing improvements in their biological effects, and highlighting their role as interface tools in macromolecular crystallization. Additionally, the research seeks to position POMs as viable alternatives to organic compounds in various fields of medicinal and biological chemistry. By addressing these aims, the research will contribute to a deeper understanding of POMs and their potential to revolutionize bioinorganic chemistry.

Scope and Information for Authors
To gather further insights into the bioinorganic chemistry of POMs, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:
- Synthesis of POMs and their characterization, both in solid state and in solutions (speciation) with a focus on stability under biological conditions.
- Toxicological studies of POMs.
- Biological properties of POMs, such as antitumor, antimicrobial, antiviral effects and neurodegenerative diseases.
- Mimicking biological processes by POMs, such as enzymatic activity or photosynthesis (water splitting).
- Presenting and developing advances and new directions in bioinorganic chemistry of POMs, discussing obstacles, and providing solutions to overcome them.