Dp44mT, a effective iron chelator, has selective antitumor activity.

SK-N-MC, SK-Mel-28, MCF-7 and MRC-5 cells are incubated in the presence and absence of DFO, 311, 3-aminopyridine-2-carboxaldehyde thiosemicarbazone, doxorubicin, and the DpT series of chelators (0-25 μM) for 72 hours at 37°C. The effect of the chelators on proliferation is examined using the MTT assay.

CD2F1 mice that are implanted M109 tumors intravenous inject Dp44mT (dissolved in Propylene glycol) 4 mg/kg in twice daily.