NAMI-A, i. e. (imH)[trans-RuCl 4 (dmso-S)(im)] (im = imidazole, dmso = dimethylsulfoxide), is a Ru(III) complex that, after extensive preclinical investigations that evidenced its remarkable and specific activity against metastases, has recently and successfully completed a Phase I trial (first ruthenium complex ever to reach clinical testing). This review article, after a brief summary of the main chemical and pharmacological aspects of NAMI-A, focuses on the development of new classes of ruthenium complexes originated from the NAMI-A frame.
