Synthesis, Biomacromolecular Interactions, Photodynamic NO Releasing and Cellular Imaging of Two [RuCl(qn)(Lbpy)(NO)]X Complexes

Two light-activated NO donors [RuCl(qn)(Lbpy)(NO)]X with 8-hydroxyquinoline (qn) and 2,2′-bipyridine derivatives (Lbpy) as co-ligands were synthesized (Lbpy1 = 4,4′-dicarboxyl-2,2′-dipyridine, X = Cl− and Lbpy2 = 4,4′-dimethoxycarbonyl-2,2′-dipyridine, X = NO3−), and characterized using ultraviolet–visible (UV-vis) spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR), elemental analysis and electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) spectra. The [RuCl(qn)(Lbpy2)(NO)]NO3 complex was crystallized and exhibited distorted octahedral geometry, in which the Ru–N(O) bond length was 1.752(6) Å and the Ru–N–O angle was 177.6(6)°. Time-resolved FT-IR and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectra were used to confirm the photoactivated NO release of the complexes. The binding constant (Kb) of two complexes with human serum albumin (HSA) and DNA were quantitatively evaluated using fluorescence spectroscopy, Ru-Lbpy1 (Kb~106 with HSA and ~104 with DNA) had higher affinity than Ru-Lbpy2. The interactions between the complexes and HSA were investigated using matrix assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS) and EPR spectra. HSA can be used as a carrier to facilitate the release of NO from the complexes upon photoirradiation. The confocal imaging of photo-induced NO release in living cells was successfully observed with a fluorescent NO probe. Moreover, the photocleavage of pBR322 DNA for the complexes and the effect of different Lbpy substituted groups in the complexes on their reactivity were analyzed.


Introduction
During the past 30 years, the function of nitric oxide (NO) in physiological and pathological roles was extensively investigated. NO has been regarded as an important gasotransmitter signaling molecule in regulating blood pressure, the nervous system, immune responses, cellular apoptosis and fighting viral infections [1][2][3][4][5]. The overall effect of NO depends on the concentration of NO [6,7]. At low nanomolar concentration, NO provides a pro-survival effect, while at relatively high µM level, it will arrest the cellular respiration and cause apoptosis in cancers on account of the inhibition of mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase (CcO) or activated several pro-apoptotic caspase signaling pathways [8][9][10][11]. Studies show that NO is also involved in post-translational modifications and nitrosylation plays a vital role in regulating the function of biomolecules and disease treatment [12,13].
Utilizing of exogenous NO donors becomes a strategy to deliver NO to a physiological target and regulate it to release quantitatively. However, the application of many NOdonating agents has limitations because of lacking the localized accumulation of NO to ensure apoptosis in a targeted site. Nitrosylruthenium complexes are promising NO donors because the released reactive radical NO upon exposure to light can be delivered to physiological targets for photodynamic therapy. Moreover, nitrosylruthenium complexes could also serve as drugs with the lower toxic side effects, modest photosensitivity and inherent stability under physiological environments [14][15][16]. Therefore, a great effort was taken for the synthesis and design of different types of nitrosylruthenium complexes in recent decade [17][18][19][20][21][22].
Bidentate chelators of 8-hydroxyquinoline and polypyridyl derivatives can bind metal ions due to the nitrogen and oxygen atoms in the structure. Many metal complexes with quinoline or its derivatives have shown antibacterial and antineoplastic activity. The studies showed that Ru complexes having quinoline derivatives exhibited increased antitumor activity as compared with ligands [23,24]. Identically, Ru complexes with polypyridyl derivatives have been demonstrated to be useful in binding to DNA, cellular imaging, anti-angiogenesis and anti-tumor because of beneficial chemical and photophysical properties [25,26].
naling pathways [8][9][10][11]. Studies show that NO is also involved in post-tran modifications and nitrosylation plays a vital role in regulating the function of cules and disease treatment [12,13].
Utilizing of exogenous NO donors becomes a strategy to deliver NO to a logical target and regulate it to release quantitatively. However, the application NO-donating agents has limitations because of lacking the localized accumulati to ensure apoptosis in a targeted site. Nitrosylruthenium complexes are prom donors because the released reactive radical NO upon exposure to light can be d to physiological targets for photodynamic therapy. Moreover, nitrosylrutheni plexes could also serve as drugs with the lower toxic side effects, modest photos and inherent stability under physiological environments [14][15][16]. Therefore, a gr was taken for the synthesis and design of different types of nitrosylruthenium co in recent decade [17][18][19][20][21][22].
Bidentate chelators of 8-hydroxyquinoline and polypyridyl derivatives metal ions due to the nitrogen and oxygen atoms in the structure. Many metal co with quinoline or its derivatives have shown antibacterial and antineoplastic acti studies showed that Ru complexes having quinoline derivatives exhibited incre titumor activity as compared with ligands [23,24]. Identically, Ru comple polypyridyl derivatives have been demonstrated to be useful in binding to DNA imaging, anti-angiogenesis and anti-tumor because of beneficial chemical an physical properties [25,26].
Different functional groups in the ligands of complexes affect the metabo behavior of cross cellular members, leading to the change of pharmacokinetic pr cellular toxicity [27][28][29]. Two new nitrosylruthenium complexes [RuCl(qn)(Lbpy were synthesized based on 8-hydroxyquinoline and 2,2′-bipyridine ligands (R [RuCl(qn)(4,4′-dicarboxyl-2,2′-dipyridine)(NO)]Cl and Ru-Lbpy2: [RuCl(qn)(4,4′ -xycarbonyl-2,2′-dipyridine)(NO)]NO3). Scheme 1 shows the synthetic proc Ru-Lbpy1 and Ru-Lbpy2 complexes. The chemical structures were characterized using ultraviolet-visible (UV-v troscopy, Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic r ( 1 H NMR), elemental analysis and electrospray ionization mass spectrometry ( NO releases from the complexes and the solvent molecule takes the vacancy as in Equation: Ru-(NO) + hν + solv → Ru III -(solv) + NO. Furthermore, the interac tween the complexes and human serum albumin (HSA) were analyzed using cence spectroscopy, matrix assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight m trometry (MALDI-TOF-MS) and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spe results indicated that they could bind to HSA and have a significant impact on th of NO. The photoinduced cleavage of pBR322 DNA was also observed when th lease from complexes occurred in the process. The photo induced NO release wa The chemical structures were characterized using ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance ( 1 H NMR), elemental analysis and electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS). NO releases from the complexes and the solvent molecule takes the vacancy as indicated in Equation: Ru-(NO) + hν + solv → Ru III -(solv) + NO. Furthermore, the interactions between the complexes and human serum albumin (HSA) were analyzed using fluorescence spectroscopy, matrix assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS) and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectra. The results indicated that they could bind to HSA and have a significant impact on the release of NO. The photoinduced cleavage of pBR322 DNA was also observed when the NO release from complexes occurred in the process. The photo induced NO release was further confirmed using NO selective fluorescent probe in human cervical cancer cells (HeLa cells). This work presents NO donors for the potential application of nitrosylruthenium complexes in biomedicine and photodynamic therapy.

Synthesis and Characterization
Two nitrosylruthenium complexes [RuCl(qn)(Lbpy)(NO)]X were synthesized by the reaction between [(CH 3 ) 4 N][RuCl 3 (qn)(NO)] and dipyridine derivative ligands, and the synthesis steps are shown in Scheme 1. The two complexes were characterized by different spectroscopy techniques including 1 H-NMR, ESI-MS, elemental analysis, UV-vis and FT-IR, as described in the experimental section and shown in supplementary information Figures S1-S9. All 1 H chemical shift and number could be matched with these complexes to deduce the mode of these ligands coordinated to the Ru, except for the active hydrogen on the carboxyl group in Ru-bpy 1 . The 1 H NMR spectrum of Ru-bpy 2 ( Figure S3) indicates that aromatic resonance shifts to higher field relative to Ru-bpy 1 ( Figure S1) as the modification of the methyl group. The ESI-MS spectra of complexes in methanol solution show signals at m/z 552.9485 (negative spectrum, Figure S4) and 582.9965 (positive spectrum, Figure S5) for the positively charged species [RuCl(qn)(Lbpy 1 )(NO)]Cl and [RuCl(qn)(Lbpy 2 )(NO)]NO 3 , respectively. The UV-vis spectra of complexes in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and aqueous solution show an apparent characteristic peak of metal complexes compared to ligand and the absorption of Ru-bpy 2 ( Figure S7) is red-shifted a few nanometers because of the push electron effect of the methyl group compared to Ru-bpy 1 ( Figure S6). They are stable in phosphate (PB) buffer solution (pH 7.5) and there is no change even after a week. The FT-IR spectra of Ru-bpy 1 ( Figure S8) and Ru-bpy 2 ( Figure S9) complexes show the presence of NO and Lbpy ligands, as evidenced by NO stretching frequencies (ν NO ) at 1888 cm −1 in addition to their Lbpy carbonyl stretching frequencies (ν CO ) at 1619 and 1729 cm −1 , respectively. The lower carbonyl stretching frequency of Ru-bpy 1 may be due to the association of carboxyl groups between the molecules.
The crystal of Ru-Lbpy 2 was obtained by the slow evaporation of ethanol solvent and the structure was determined by the X-ray diffraction method. The ortep diagram of Ru-Lbpy 2 is presented in Figure 1.

Synthesis and Characterization
Two nitrosylruthenium complexes [RuCl(qn)(Lbpy)(NO)]X were reaction between [(CH3)4N][RuCl3(qn)(NO)] and dipyridine derivativ synthesis steps are shown in Scheme 1. The two complexes were ch ferent spectroscopy techniques including 1 H-NMR, ESI-MS, element and FT-IR, as described in the experimental section and shown in su mation Figures S1-S9. All 1 H chemical shift and number could be m complexes to deduce the mode of these ligands coordinated to the Ru tive hydrogen on the carboxyl group in Ru-bpy1. The 1 H NMR sp ( Figure S3) indicates that aromatic resonance shifts to higher field ( Figure S1) as the modification of the methyl group. The ESI-MS spec methanol solution show signals at m/z 552.9485 (negative spectru 582.9965 (positive spectrum, Figure S5) for the positively [RuCl(qn)(Lbpy1)(NO)]Cl and [RuCl(qn)(Lbpy2)(NO)]NO3, respect spectra of complexes in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and aqueous so parent characteristic peak of metal complexes compared to ligand an Ru-bpy2 ( Figure S7) is red-shifted a few nanometers because of the pu the methyl group compared to Ru-bpy1 ( Figure S6). They are stable buffer solution (pH 7.5) and there is no change even after a week. T Ru-bpy1 ( Figure S8) and Ru-bpy2 ( Figure S9) complexes show the pr Lbpy ligands, as evidenced by NO stretching frequencies (νNO) at 1888 their Lbpy carbonyl stretching frequencies (νCO) at 1619 and 1729 cm − lower carbonyl stretching frequency of Ru-bpy1 may be due to the asso groups between the molecules.
The crystal of Ru-Lbpy2 was obtained by the slow evaporation and the structure was determined by the X-ray diffraction method. Th Ru-Lbpy2 is presented in Figure 1.  There are one positive ion [RuCl(qn)(Lbpy)(NO)] + , one nitrate as the counter ion and one ethanol solvent molecule in the asymmetric unit. The Ru atom is six-coordinated by the binding of the N-atom of NO, two N-atoms of the Lbpy 2 ligand, one N-atom and one O-atom of the qn ligand, Cl − . Obviously, the O atom of qn ligand presents trans to NO. The nitrate ion is partially disordered, in which O8 and O9 are both 100% occupied contributing an oxygen atom each while O10 and O11 together contribute an oxygen atom with the occupancies of 40% and 60%, respectively. Moreover, the O atom of ethanol molecule is also shared by O7 and O7 together about 39% and 61% occupied, respectively. Understandably, the thermal vibration parameters of the atoms are affected because of the measurement at room temperature. In the structure, this test alerts for possibly missed hydrogen bonds in O6-O10 and N4-O10 as indicated by short distances, however, N4, O6 and O10 atoms all have no hydrogen atom so they cannot form hydrogen bonds.
The crystallographic data and structure refinement of Ru-Lbpy 2 are given in Table 1. The final residual factors R [F 2 > 2σ(F 2 )], wR 2 (F 2 ) and goodness-of-fit (F 2 ) GOOF value are 0.0663, 0.1663 and 1.023 for Ru-Lbpy 2 , respectively. In addition, selected bond lengths and angles are listed in Table 2, the Ru-N(O) bond length is 1.752 (6) and the Ru-N-O bond angle is nearly linear at 177.6 (6) • , similar to that observed in the corresponding Ru complexes [30]. The X-ray crystallographic data including atomic coordinates and equivalent isotropic temperature factors for the complex have been deposited in the Cambridge Crystallographic Data Centre (CCDC) under accession number 2054814. Atomic coordinates and equivalent isotropic temperature factors for the complex are shown in Table S1, and anisotropic displacement parameters are shown in Table S2.

Photo-Induced NO Release
In order to investigate the NO releasing capacity of [RuCl(qn)(Lbpy)(NO)]X complexes, time-resolved IR and EPR experiment were carried out. Time-resolved IR spectroscopy is an effective method to record the kinetic process of NO release. The time-resolved FT-IR spectra of two complexes upon photo irradiation are shown in Figure 2. NO vibrational frequencies of [RuCl(qn)(Lbpy)(NO)]X complexes with the Lbpy 1 and Lbpy 2 ligands are 1858 and 1853 cm −1 , respectively. The released NO amount of two complexes increases along with the extended photo irradiation time. The released NO rate of Ru-Lbpy 1 is thermodynamically faster than that of Ru-Lbpy 2 whether it is upon a 420 nm light source or a xenon lamp. Moreover, more NO is released by xenon lamp with higher power (300 mW·cm −2 ) than that by 420 nm illumination (75 mW·cm −2 ) for the same complex in the same time period. The reported NO quantum yield for Ru complexes with terpyridine and bipyridine derivatives as ligands [31] and nitrosylruthenium complexes with different configurations using terpyridine derivatives as ligands is quite different [32]. It is obvious that the NO quantum yield is affected by different ligands and is related with molecular structure. The estimated NO quantum yield values (Φ 420 nm ) for Ru-Lbpy 1 and Ru-Lbpy 2 complexes in DMSO are 0.007 ± 0.001 and 0.005 ± 0.001, respectively. Therefore, it is possible to control the NO release from nitrosylruthenium complex by designing the ligands of the complex and adjusting location, time, and power of lamp [33,34].
Molecules 2021, 26, x FOR PEER REVIEW 420 nm light source or a xenon lamp. Moreover, more NO is released by xenon lam higher power (300 mW•cm −2 ) than that by 420 nm illumination (75 mW•cm −2 ) for t complex in the same time period. The reported NO quantum yield for Ru complex terpyridine and bipyridine derivatives as ligands [31] and nitrosylruthenium com with different configurations using terpyridine derivatives as ligands is quite d [32]. It is obvious that the NO quantum yield is affected by different ligands an lated with molecular structure. The estimated NO quantum yield values (Φ42 Ru-Lbpy1 and Ru-Lbpy2 complexes in DMSO are 0.007 ± 0.001 and 0.005 ± 0.001, tively. Therefore, it is possible to control the NO release from nitrosylruthenium c by designing the ligands of the complex and adjusting location, time, and power [33,34]. To monitor the release of NO free radical after photoly [RuCl(qn)(Lbpy)(NO)]-X complexes, EPR measurements were performed using t reagent Fe(MGD)2 [35]. The spectra were recorded from 0 to 500 s after the add Fe-MGD adduct to the complexes. There is no signal observed for the two comp the dark as shown by the black line in Figure 3. However, it is evident that pho products display intensely hyperfine EPR triplet signals. In most cases, photolys produce paramagnetic Ru(III) species upon NO release as the Equation: {Ru-NO} Ru III -(solv) + NO according to references [36,37]. Obviously, the signal intensit spectra increases along with the extension of illumination time and Ru-bpy1 (Fig has a more significant effect on EPR signal intensity compared to Ru-bpy2 (Fig upon photoirradiation. The generated hyperfine splitting constant g factor by t tolysis of the complexes in 5% DMSO buffer is equal to 2.039 that is similar to t lished value for NO-Fe 2+ -MGD adduct [38,39]. To monitor the release of NO free radical after photolysis of [RuCl(qn)(Lbpy)(NO)]-X complexes, EPR measurements were performed using trapping reagent Fe(MGD) 2 [35]. The spectra were recorded from 0 to 500 s after the addition of Fe-MGD adduct to the complexes. There is no signal observed for the two complexes in the dark as shown by the black line in Figure 3. However, it is evident that photolyzed products display intensely hyperfine EPR triplet signals. In most cases, photolysis could produce paramagnetic Ru(III) species upon NO release as the Equation: {Ru-NO} 6 + hν → Ru III -(solv) + NO according to references [36,37]. Obviously, the signal intensity of the spectra increases along with the extension of illumination time and Ru-bpy 1 (Figure 3a) has a more significant effect on EPR signal intensity compared to Ru-bpy 2 ( Figure 3b) upon photoirradiation. The generated hyperfine splitting constant g factor by the photolysis of the complexes in 5% DMSO buffer is equal to 2.039 that is similar to the published value for NO-Fe 2+ -MGD adduct [38,39].

Protein Binding Properties
It is well known that the plasma contains abundant HSA, which can accumul tumor cells at a higher level compared to normal cells. Hence, HSA has been rec more attention as being used to serve as a carrier for drug delivery in recent HSA-based delivery system can contribute to improving metal drugs targeted b tribution and safety performance [40]. In order to better understand the binding m nism between the synthesized [RuCl(qn)(Lbpy)(NO)]X complexes and HSA, the niques such as fluorescence spectroscopy and MALDI-TOF-MS were used.
The The stronger binding ability of Ru-Lbpy1 (4.83 ± 0.09 M −1 ) than that of Ru-Lbpy2 (7.41 ± 0.08 × 10 4 M −1 ) may be due to the hydrogen bo between the carboxyl group of Ru-bpy1 and serum protein in addition to the quenching (Table 3).

Protein Binding Properties
It is well known that the plasma contains abundant HSA, which can accumulate in tumor cells at a higher level compared to normal cells. Hence, HSA has been received more attention as being used to serve as a carrier for drug delivery in recent years, HSA-based delivery system can contribute to improving metal drugs targeted biodistribution and safety performance [40]. In order to better understand the binding mechanism between the synthesized [RuCl(qn)(Lbpy)(NO)]X complexes and HSA, the techniques such as fluorescence spectroscopy and MALDI-TOF-MS were used.
The endogenous fluorescence of HSA mainly stems from the chromogenic groups in the side chains of tryptophan (Trp), tyrosine (Tyr) and phenylalanine (Phe) residues. The fluorescence of HSA is quenched obviously and the wavelength is redshifted by a few nanometers with the increasing concentration of [RuCl(qn)(Lbpy)(NO)]X complexes ( Figure 4). Meanwhile, the fluorescence of Tyr residue appears slightly as the concentration of the complex increases. This suggests that these complexes have a certain effect on the binding of serum protein. The binding constant (K b ) and the binding number (n) between HSA and [RuCl(qn)(Lbpy)(NO)]X complexes can be obtained from the slope and intercept through the Scatchard formula: lg [(F 0 − F)/F] = lg K b + n lg [Q], in which Q is the complex concentration, F 0 is the fluorescence of HSA and F is the fluorescence of HSA in the presence of the complex. The linear plots of lg [(F 0 − F)/F] versus lg [Q] are displayed in the inner illustration. The stronger binding ability of Ru-Lbpy 1 (4.83 ± 0.09 × 10 6 M −1 ) than that of Ru-Lbpy 2 (7.41 ± 0.08 × 10 4 M −1 ) may be due to the hydrogen bonding between the carboxyl group of Ru-bpy 1 and serum protein in addition to the static quenching (Table 3).

Protein Binding Properties
It is well known that the plasma contains abundant HSA, which can accumulate in tumor cells at a higher level compared to normal cells. Hence, HSA has been received more attention as being used to serve as a carrier for drug delivery in recent years, HSA-based delivery system can contribute to improving metal drugs targeted biodistribution and safety performance [40]. In order to better understand the binding mechanism between the synthesized [RuCl(qn)(Lbpy)(NO)]X complexes and HSA, the techniques such as fluorescence spectroscopy and MALDI-TOF-MS were used.
The endogenous fluorescence of HSA mainly stems from the chromogenic groups in the side chains of tryptophan (Trp), tyrosine (Tyr) and phenylalanine (Phe) residues. The fluorescence of HSA is quenched obviously and the wavelength is redshifted by a few nanometers with the increasing concentration of [RuCl(qn)(Lbpy)(NO)]X complexes ( Figure 4). Meanwhile, the fluorescence of Tyr residue appears slightly as the concentration of the complex increases. This suggests that these complexes have a certain effect on the binding of serum protein. The binding constant (Kb) and the binding number (n) between HSA and [RuCl(qn)(Lbpy)(NO)]X complexes can be obtained from the slope and intercept through the Scatchard formula: lg [(F0 − F)/F] = lg Kb + n lg [Q], in which Q is the complex concentration, F0 is the fluorescence of HSA and F is the fluorescence of HSA in the presence of the complex. The linear plots of lg [(F0 − F)/F] versus lg [Q] are displayed in the inner illustration. The stronger binding ability of Ru-Lbpy1 (4.83 ± 0.09 × 10 6 M −1 ) than that of Ru-Lbpy2 (7.41 ± 0.08 × 10 4 M −1 ) may be due to the hydrogen bonding between the carboxyl group of Ru-bpy1 and serum protein in addition to the static quenching (Table 3).   Table 3. The binding constant (K b ) and number of average binding site (n) of two Ru-Lbpy complexes with HSA and DNA. 1 4.83 ± 0.09 × 10 6 1. 46 2.14 ± 0.08 × 10 4 1.20 Ru-bpy 2 7.41 ± 0.08 × 10 4 1.09 5.52 ± 0.16 × 10 3 1.14 HSA molecule is a single-chain protein which contains 585 amino acid residues in a heart-like shape [41,42]. MALDI-TOF-MS spectra for native HSA, Ru-Lbpy 1 -HSA complex and Ru-Lbpy 2 -HSA complex are shown in Figure 5. The data indicate an increase in molecular weight of approximately 2245 Da for the Ru-Lbpy 1 -HSA complex and 3512 Da for the Ru-Lbpy 2 -HSA complex relative to HSA, corresponding to the molecular weight of ca. four Ru-Lbpy 1 and five Ru-Lbpy 2 each bound per HSA molecule, respectively. Crystal structure indicates that HSA has three domains (I-III), the data of MALDI-TOF-MS spectra suggest that 3~5 molecules are possibly encapsulated in one HSA molecule. Beside the binding site in the sub-domain, these complex molecules are possibly temporarily stored in the space between domains I, II and III of HSA. The possible binding mode for metal drugs in a HSA-based delivery system is multiple.  HSA molecule is a single-chain protein which contains 585 amino acid residues in a heart-like shape [41,42]. MALDI-TOF-MS spectra for native HSA, Ru-Lbpy1-HSA complex and Ru-Lbpy2-HSA complex are shown in Figure 5. The data indicate an increase in molecular weight of approximately 2245 Da for the Ru-Lbpy1-HSA complex and 3512 Da for the Ru-Lbpy2-HSA complex relative to HSA, corresponding to the molecular weight of ca. four Ru-Lbpy1 and five Ru-Lbpy2 each bound per HSA molecule, respectively. Crystal structure indicates that HSA has three domains (I-III), the data of MAL-DI-TOF-MS spectra suggest that 3~5 molecules are possibly encapsulated in one HSA molecule. Beside the binding site in the sub-domain, these complex molecules are possibly temporarily stored in the space between domains I, II and III of HSA. The possible binding mode for metal drugs in a HSA-based delivery system is multiple. To observe the effect of [RuCl(qn)(Lbpy)(NO)]X complexes with HSA on the NO release, EPR technology was operated. Notably, after the interaction of Ru-Lbpy1/Ru-Lbpy2 complexes with HSA, the intensity of trapped NO under light irradiation is approximately twice more than those complexes alone in solution in EPR experiment ( Figure 6). In general, HSA could be used as the carrier for the transport of these complexes in vivo to form HSA-Ru complex adduct and promote NO release upon illumination, which provides the basis for developing novel nitrosylruthenium drugs and a protein delivery system for photodynamic therapy.  To observe the effect of [RuCl(qn)(Lbpy)(NO)]X complexes with HSA on the NO release, EPR technology was operated. Notably, after the interaction of Ru-Lbpy 1 /Ru-Lbpy 2 complexes with HSA, the intensity of trapped NO under light irradiation is approximately twice more than those complexes alone in solution in EPR experiment ( Figure 6). In general, HSA could be used as the carrier for the transport of these complexes in vivo to form HSA-Ru complex adduct and promote NO release upon illumination, which provides the basis for developing novel nitrosylruthenium drugs and a protein delivery system for photodynamic therapy.  HSA molecule is a single-chain protein which contains 585 amino acid residues in a heart-like shape [41,42]. MALDI-TOF-MS spectra for native HSA, Ru-Lbpy1-HSA complex and Ru-Lbpy2-HSA complex are shown in Figure 5. The data indicate an increase in molecular weight of approximately 2245 Da for the Ru-Lbpy1-HSA complex and 3512 Da for the Ru-Lbpy2-HSA complex relative to HSA, corresponding to the molecular weight of ca. four Ru-Lbpy1 and five Ru-Lbpy2 each bound per HSA molecule, respectively. Crystal structure indicates that HSA has three domains (I-III), the data of MAL-DI-TOF-MS spectra suggest that 3~5 molecules are possibly encapsulated in one HSA molecule. Beside the binding site in the sub-domain, these complex molecules are possibly temporarily stored in the space between domains I, II and III of HSA. The possible binding mode for metal drugs in a HSA-based delivery system is multiple. To observe the effect of [RuCl(qn)(Lbpy)(NO)]X complexes with HSA on the NO release, EPR technology was operated. Notably, after the interaction of Ru-Lbpy1/Ru-Lbpy2 complexes with HSA, the intensity of trapped NO under light irradiation is approximately twice more than those complexes alone in solution in EPR experiment ( Figure 6). In general, HSA could be used as the carrier for the transport of these complexes in vivo to form HSA-Ru complex adduct and promote NO release upon illumination, which provides the basis for developing novel nitrosylruthenium drugs and a protein delivery system for photodynamic therapy.

DNA Binding Properties
DNA is a vital biological target and the binding of metal complexes to DNA is the key to understand the mechanism of action [43]. The interactions of [RuCl(qn)(Lbpy) (NO)]X complexes and calf thymus DNA (CT-DNA) were studied by fluorescence spectroscopy and agarose gel electrophoresis.
Fluorescence spectroscopy as a sensitive technique is used to analyze the binding pattern of the CT-DNA-EB (ethidiumbromide) system with complexes. CT-DNA-EB has strong emission intensity at 598 nm because the EB aromatic ring structure is parallel inserted into the DNA double helix, avoiding fluorescence quenching from the solvent. After the addition of the Ru complexes, the fluorescence intensity decreases as the complexes replace EB in the EB-DNA system (Figure 7). The binding constant (K b ) and the number of average binding sites (n) between them are obtained according to the Scatchard equation, Q is the DNA concentration, and F 0 and F are the fluorescence of DNA in the absence and presence of Ru complex. The linear plots are displayed in the inner illustration. The calculated binding constant through static quenching mode is 2.14 ± 0.08 × 10 4 and 5.52 ± 0.16 × 10 3 M −1 for the Ru-Lbpy 1 and Ru-Lbpy 2 complexes, respectively. The average binding-site number is about one ( Table 3). There is planar ring in two complexes, therefore, the binding of the Ru complexes with DNA mainly involves intercalation. Furthermore, Ru-Lbpy 1 has stronger binding ability than Ru-Lbpy 2 , which may be related to the hydrogen bond between the carboxyl group of Ru-Lbpy 1 and DNA.

DNA Binding Properties
DNA is a vital biological target and the binding of metal complexes to DNA is the key to understand the mechanism of action [43]. The interactions of [RuCl(qn)(Lbpy) (NO)]X complexes and calf thymus DNA (CT-DNA) were studied by fluorescence spectroscopy and agarose gel electrophoresis.
Fluorescence spectroscopy as a sensitive technique is used to analyze the binding pattern of the CT-DNA-EB (ethidiumbromide) system with complexes. CT-DNA-EB has strong emission intensity at 598 nm because the EB aromatic ring structure is parallel inserted into the DNA double helix, avoiding fluorescence quenching from the solvent. After the addition of the Ru complexes, the fluorescence intensity decreases as the complexes replace EB in the EB-DNA system (Figure 7). The binding constant (Kb) and the number of average binding sites (n) between them are obtained according to the Scatchard equation, Q is the DNA concentration, and F0 and F are the fluorescence of DNA in the absence and presence of Ru complex. The linear plots are displayed in the inner illustration. The calculated binding constant through static quenching mode is 2.14 ± 0.08 × 10 4 and 5.52 ± 0.16 × 10 3 M −1 for the Ru-Lbpy1 and Ru-Lbpy2 complexes, respectively. The average binding-site number is about one ( Table 3). There is planar ring in two complexes, therefore, the binding of the Ru complexes with DNA mainly involves intercalation. Furthermore, Ru-Lbpy1 has stronger binding ability than Ru-Lbpy2, which may be related to the hydrogen bond between the carboxyl group of Ru-Lbpy1 and DNA. In order to investigate the effect of [RuCl(qn)(Lbpy)(NO)]X complexes after illumination on plasmid pBR322 DNA configuration, agarose gel electrophoresis technology was used. It has been reported that pBR322 DNA with different configurations moves at different velocities in the electric field. The closed superhelical form (scc) for PBR322 DNA migrates the fastest while the open-circular form (occ) produces slower migration in the electrophoresis process because of the single strand breakage. In addition, if both chains of DNA are split, the linear form (lc) is produced that migrates between scc and occ [44]. The photo induced pBR322 DNA damage experiment by the complexes was carried out (Figure 8). The results show that DNA still exists in the form of the closed superhelix and the complexes (<200 µM) could not induce DNA damage in the dark (Figure 8a). However, the photocleavage of DNA takes place after interacting with the complexes by irradiation. As the concentration of Ru-Lbpy1 increases, DNA is cleaved into the open-loop form at first, followed by the emergence of the linear form (Figure 8b). As a comparison, DNA is mainly cut into the open-loop form for Ru-Lbpy2 (Figure 8c). To sum up, illumination promotes the DNA cleavage activity of the complexes and the interaction between them occurs through the light-induced reaction pathway. In order to investigate the effect of [RuCl(qn)(Lbpy)(NO)]X complexes after illumination on plasmid pBR322 DNA configuration, agarose gel electrophoresis technology was used. It has been reported that pBR322 DNA with different configurations moves at different velocities in the electric field. The closed superhelical form (scc) for PBR322 DNA migrates the fastest while the open-circular form (occ) produces slower migration in the electrophoresis process because of the single strand breakage. In addition, if both chains of DNA are split, the linear form (lc) is produced that migrates between scc and occ [44]. The photo induced pBR322 DNA damage experiment by the complexes was carried out (Figure 8). The results show that DNA still exists in the form of the closed superhelix and the complexes (<200 µM) could not induce DNA damage in the dark (Figure 8a). However, the photocleavage of DNA takes place after interacting with the complexes by irradiation. As the concentration of Ru-Lbpy 1 increases, DNA is cleaved into the open-loop form at first, followed by the emergence of the linear form (Figure 8b). As a comparison, DNA is mainly cut into the open-loop form for Ru-Lbpy 2 (Figure 8c). To sum up, illumination promotes the DNA cleavage activity of the complexes and the interaction between them occurs through the light-induced reaction pathway.

Cytotoxicity and Imaging of NO Releasing in Living Cell
A series of ruthenium complexes containing the different ligands against cancer cells have been reported, these complexes could be used to reduce tumor growth, and some complexes could increase mean survival time with a relatively low cytotoxicity and genotoxicity in non-tumor cells [45][46][47][48][49][50][51][52][53]. The studies on the Ru complexes with multi-mixed ligands provide a strategy to search for effective leading compound and shed light on the mechanism of action. Cytotoxicity and photocytotoxicity of the two [RuCl(qn)(Lbpy)(NO)]X complexes were evaluated against HeLa cells. Unexpectedly, the cytotoxicity of the two complexes is very weak for the tested tumor cell, as shown in Figure S10A,B. The IC50 is 290 µM and 320 µM for Ru-Lbpy1 and Ru-Lbpy2 complexes, respectively. Photocytotoxicity is shown in Figure S10. The photocytotoxicity for the complexes could be observed, although they are weak. The half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) is 200 µM and 215 µM for the two complexes, respectively.
To investigate whether the complexes could be transported into cell or NO could be released upon photoirradiation of [RuCl(qn)(Lbpy)(NO)]X complexes, fluorescence imaging assay for NO in living cells was evaluated with a confocal fluorescence microscope and DAX-J2 as NO-sensitive fluorescent probe. To reduce the interference of the probe on the cells, DAX-J2 (5 µM) was used in the subsequent biological imaging assays. HeLa cells have almost no fluorescence or very weak fluorescence due to endogenous NO when they are treated with DAX-J2 whether it is in a dark condition or upon light irradiation ( Figure 9A). However, DAX-J2-loaded Hela cells are treated with synthetic nitrosylruthenium complexes and then exposed to a light-emitting diode (LED) lamp continuously, distinct red fluorescence is observed ( Figure 9B,C). Thus, the exogenous NO release from [RuCl(qn)(Lbpy)(NO)]X can enter into cells and photo-induced NO release could be observed in the cellular environment.

Cytotoxicity and Imaging of NO Releasing in Living Cell
A series of ruthenium complexes containing the different ligands against cancer cells have been reported, these complexes could be used to reduce tumor growth, and some complexes could increase mean survival time with a relatively low cytotoxicity and genotoxicity in non-tumor cells [45][46][47][48][49][50][51][52][53]. The studies on the Ru complexes with multi-mixed ligands provide a strategy to search for effective leading compound and shed light on the mechanism of action. Cytotoxicity and photocytotoxicity of the two [RuCl(qn)(Lbpy)(NO)]X complexes were evaluated against HeLa cells. Unexpectedly, the cytotoxicity of the two complexes is very weak for the tested tumor cell, as shown in Figure S10A,B. The IC 50 is 290 µM and 320 µM for Ru-Lbpy 1 and Ru-Lbpy 2 complexes, respectively. Photocytotoxicity is shown in Figure S10. The photocytotoxicity for the complexes could be observed, although they are weak. The half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC 50 ) is 200 µM and 215 µM for the two complexes, respectively.
To investigate whether the complexes could be transported into cell or NO could be released upon photoirradiation of [RuCl(qn)(Lbpy)(NO)]X complexes, fluorescence imaging assay for NO in living cells was evaluated with a confocal fluorescence microscope and DAX-J2 as NO-sensitive fluorescent probe. To reduce the interference of the probe on the cells, DAX-J2 (5 µM) was used in the subsequent biological imaging assays. HeLa cells have almost no fluorescence or very weak fluorescence due to endogenous NO when they are treated with DAX-J2 whether it is in a dark condition or upon light irradiation ( Figure 9A). However, DAX-J2-loaded Hela cells are treated with synthetic nitrosylruthenium complexes and then exposed to a light-emitting diode (LED) lamp continuously, distinct red fluorescence is observed ( Figure 9B,C). Thus, the exogenous NO release from [RuCl(qn)(Lbpy)(NO)]X can enter into cells and photo-induced NO release could be observed in the cellular environment.

Cytotoxicity and Imaging of NO Releasing in Living Cell
A series of ruthenium complexes containing the different ligands against cancer cells have been reported, these complexes could be used to reduce tumor growth, and some complexes could increase mean survival time with a relatively low cytotoxicity and genotoxicity in non-tumor cells [45][46][47][48][49][50][51][52][53]. The studies on the Ru complexes with multi-mixed ligands provide a strategy to search for effective leading compound and shed light on the mechanism of action. Cytotoxicity and photocytotoxicity of the two [RuCl(qn)(Lbpy)(NO)]X complexes were evaluated against HeLa cells. Unexpectedly, the cytotoxicity of the two complexes is very weak for the tested tumor cell, as shown in Figure S10A,B. The IC50 is 290 µM and 320 µM for Ru-Lbpy1 and Ru-Lbpy2 complexes, respectively. Photocytotoxicity is shown in Figure S10. The photocytotoxicity for the complexes could be observed, although they are weak. The half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) is 200 µM and 215 µM for the two complexes, respectively.
To investigate whether the complexes could be transported into cell or NO could be released upon photoirradiation of [RuCl(qn)(Lbpy)(NO)]X complexes, fluorescence imaging assay for NO in living cells was evaluated with a confocal fluorescence microscope and DAX-J2 as NO-sensitive fluorescent probe. To reduce the interference of the probe on the cells, DAX-J2 (5 µM) was used in the subsequent biological imaging assays. HeLa cells have almost no fluorescence or very weak fluorescence due to endogenous NO when they are treated with DAX-J2 whether it is in a dark condition or upon light irradiation ( Figure 9A). However, DAX-J2-loaded Hela cells are treated with synthetic nitrosylruthenium complexes and then exposed to a light-emitting diode (LED) lamp continuously, distinct red fluorescence is observed ( Figure 9B,C). Thus, the exogenous NO release from [RuCl(qn)(Lbpy)(NO)]X can enter into cells and photo-induced NO release could be observed in the cellular environment.

Measurements
1 H NMR spectra were measured by Bruker 600 MHz nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometer. Mass spectra were obtained by Thermo Q Exactive field orbital well cyclotron resonance mass spectrometer. IR spectra (solid infrared, liquid infrared and time-resolved infrared) were carried out by Thermo Nicolet iS50 FT-IR infrared spectrometer. UV-vis spectra were measured by a Thermo Evolution-220 spectrometer. Elemental analysis was measured by a vario EL CUBE. XRD was conducted by a Bruker Smart Apex II diffractometer. EPR was measured by a Bruker EMXPLUS10/12 spectrometer. Fluorescence spectra were measured by a FluoroMax-4 spectrofluorometer. The molecular weight of protein was analyzed by Bruker Ultraflex MALDI-TOF-MS spectrometer. Agarose gel electrophoresis was performed by DYY-6C electrophoresis apparatus of Beijing Liuyi Biological Technology Co., Ltd (Beijing, China). A cytotoxicity test was measured by SpectraMax iD5 microplate reader. Confocal microscopy images were analyzed by a LSM-880 confocal laser scanning microscope.
After refluxing for 24 h, the solution was cooled and poured into 45 mL water to form a white slurry. The pH value of the slurry was adjusted to 8~9 with 1 M NaOH. The crude product was filtered, dried in vacuo and purified by silica gel column chromatography with CH 2 Cl 2 :CH 3 OH = 50:1 to obtain the white solid. Yield: 234 mg (79%). 1

Photo-Induced NO Release
Time-resolved IR spectra were carried out to investigate the NO releasing capacity for [RuCl(qn)(Lbpy)(NO)]X complexes. These complexes (3.5 mg) were dissolved in deuterated DMSO and the solutions were added to the infrared sample cell consisting of two rounded CaF 2 windows. The measured wavelength was from 1850 to 1950 cm −1 and the resolution was 4 cm −1 . A Xe lamp (HSX-F300, 0.3 W·cm −2 ) in the absence and presence of 420 nm band-pass filter was used to irradiate samples, which were kept at a specific distance from the filter to maintain the constant irradiated power. To eliminate the produced heat in the illumination process, radiating facilities such as radiator fan and air conditioning were used. The light irradiation time was 60 min in the wavelength of 420 nm filter and 30 min with Xe lamp. The quantum yield of two complexes were estimated at the wavelength of λ = 420 nm according to the equation: Φ 420 nm = n N A h c/E λ (where n was the number of reactant molecules in mol, N A was Avogadro constant, h was Plank constant, c was the speed of light and E was the absorbed photon energy), in which the absorbed photon energy was obtained by the formula E = I t S T (I was the power density of incident light; t was the time; S was the effective absorption area; T was the transmittance) [56].
X-band EPR spectra of [RuCl(qn)(Lbpy)(NO)]X complexes were detected continuously using the following parameters: microwave frequency, 9.86 GHz; microwave power, 10.00 mW; center field, 3454.00 G; modulation amplitude, 0.800 G; modulation frequency, 100.00 kHz; sweep width, 120.0 G; conversion time, 25.00 ms; sweep time, 30 s. Samples (5 mM) and Fe(MGD) 2 (5 mM) mixed in water containing 5% DMSO were transferred quantitatively to quartz capillaries to record the spectra from 3400 to 3500 G. To compare the two complexes, EPR spectra were recorded in the same illumination distance and illumination time by Hg lamp (100 W) at room temperature.

Binding of the Complexes with Protein
The measurements for binding of [RuCl(qn)(Lbpy)(NO)]X complexes with HSA were performed using the fluorescence quenching experiments and MALDI-TOF-MS spectra. Fluorescence spectra of HSA (10 µM) in 20 mM PB buffer (pH 7.4) and different concentrations of the complexes (0~80 µM) were measured in the 280 nm excitation wavelength. The emission wavelength was in a range of 290-520 nm. The excitation and emission slit-width were both 5 nm. The experiment was repeated three times. Then, MALDI-TOF-MS spectra of HSA (5 mg/mL) and the complexes (the ratio was 1:8) in 20 mM PB buffer (pH 7.4) were recorded using an ultraflextreme high-resolution mass spectrometer from 30,000 to 150,000 with 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid (DHB) as the matrix.
To observe the influence on the NO release of complexes after interacting with HSA, EPR technology was operated. The NO release situations from the mixture of [RuCl(qn)(Lbpy)(NO)]X complexes (5 mM), Fe(MGD) 2 (5 mM) and HSA (0.625 mM) in water containing 5% DMSO were monitored by EPR under the same parameters as mentioned above.

Binding of the Complexes with DNA and Photo-Induced DNA Damage
Fluorescence spectroscopy were utilized to analyze the interaction of CT-DNA with [RuCl(qn)(Lbpy)(NO)]X complexes. CT-DNA solid material was dissolved in distilled water and the stock concentration was calculated by determining the 260 nm absorption using a spectrophotometer. Then, the CT-DNA-EB system was prepared by adding 2.5 µM EB and 170 µM CT-DNA to 10 mM tris buffer (pH 7.4). Finally, the titrations were conducted by the addition of complexes dissolved in DMSO step by step to the CT-DNA-EB solution, until a plateau in the fluorescence intensity was reached (Ru-Lbpy 1 :0~200 µM and Ru-Lbpy 2 :0~500 µM). All the experiments were stirred gently at room temperature for 5 min. The fluorescence spectra were collected in the range of 530-750 nm upon 520 nm excitation with 5 nm/5 nm slit width in a 1-cm quartz. The experiment was repeated three times.
Photo-induced plasmid DNA unwinding experiments of two [RuCl(qn)(Lbpy)(NO)]-X complexes were estimated by agarose gel electrophoresis. Complexes were prepared as 5 mM DMSO stock solutions and diluted to needful concentrations with 10 mM Tris-HCl buffer (pH 7.4). As controls, the supercoiled pBR322 DNA (0.05 µg) and the complexes (0~200 µM) in a total volume of 20 µL buffer were incubated for 30 min in the dark. In order to compare the cleavage action of DNA after illumination, the mixture of pBR322 DNA and the complexes was irradiated for 10 min with a Xe light source. Finally, the mixed solution was electrophoresed at 70 V through 1% agarose gel immersed in 1 × trimethylol aminomethane-boric acid (TBE) buffer for 40 min.

Cellular Culture
The cytotoxicity and photocytotoxicity of two [RuCl(qn)(Lbpy)(NO)]X complexes were evaluated against HeLa cells using CCK8 assay. Hela cells were cultured at 37 • C/5% CO 2 atmosphere with DMEM medium adding 10% (v/v) FBS and 1% (v/v) penicillin/streptomycin. The cells were seeded on a 96-well plate with a density of 5 × 10 4 cells/mL and incubated for 12 h. Then, the cultured cells were treated with the cell culture medium containing different concentrations of [RuCl(qn)(Lbpy)(NO)]X complexes (0, 1, 5, 10, 50, 500 µM) and further incubated for 24 h. Later, CCK-8 solution (100 µL, 1 mg/mL) diluted with the cell culture medium was added to each well and the plate was further incubated for 3 h. After the incubation, the absorbance was recorded at 450 nm using a microplate reader. As control, another plate was operated using the same procedure as described above except for the LED lighting 30 min after the addition of the drugs for one hour. Each experiment was repeated at least three times.

Cellular Imaging of NO
HeLa cells were seeded on fluorescent imaging dish with glass bottom with a diameter of 35 mm and were maintained at a 37 • C/5% CO 2 incubator for 12 h. The cells were washed twice with PBS, treated with NO probe DAX-J2 Red (5.0 µM) and incubated at 37 • C for 30 min. The cells were then treated with [RuCl(qn)(Lbpy)(NO)]X complexes (10 µM) for 20 min, washed twice with PBS, and illuminated 5, 10 min by a LED light with the current of 0.3 A and the wavelength of 420 nm. After each light exposure, it was immediately analyzed under a confocal fluorescence imaging system. Excitation was performed with a laser at λ = 561 nm and the emission wavelength was recorded in the range of 579-701 nm. Cells with only the probe but no complex were used as the control.

Conclusions
In summary, two light-activated NO donors [RuCl(qn)(Lbpy)(NO)]X based on 8hydroxy-quinoline and 2,2 -bipyridine derivatives were synthesized and characterized. The crystal structure of [RuCl(qn)(Lbpy 2 )(NO)]NO 3 complex shows a typical {Ru-NO} 6 conformation. The NO release ability of complexes is not only related to the substitution ligand, but also external light irradiation, including optical wavelength, density and time. The fluorescence studies and MALDI-TOF-MS spectra support the assertion that the complexes could bind to protein and HSA could be a delivery system for the complexes. According to EPR spectra, the interaction of the complexes with HSA will form an HSA-Ru complex adduct to promote the NO release upon irradiation, which makes a foundation for bio-application in photodynamic therapy. In addition, Ru-Lbpy 1 has stronger binding ability with DNA than Ru-Lbpy 2 and illumination promotes the DNA cleavage activity of the complexes. Notably, the hydrogen bond on the Ru-Lbpy 1 carboxyl group is also in favor of the combination between the complex and HSA/DNA. Moreover, confocal fluorescence imaging shows that photo-induced NO release could be detected in the cellular environment. The results indicate that different substituted ligands in the complexes affect the interaction mode with biomacromolecules and adjust their biological activities, it will guide the rational design of NO donors and metal complex-based drugs.