Reduction of Cisplatin-Induced Ototoxicity without Compromising Its Antitumor Activity

Cisplatin is a major chemotherapeutic that continues to have a significant impact in the treatment of more than 50% of all cancers. Since its Food and Drug Administration approval in 1978 for the treatment of advanced ovarian and bladder cancer, this chemotherapeutic has made significant strides and its application has been extended to a large variety of other cancers. However, the vast majority of patients who receive cisplatin therapy often suffer from nephrotoxicity, neurotoxicity, nausea, and ototoxicity. Numerous methods currently exist for overcoming nephrotoxicity- and nausea-related side effects, but there is no clear prevention to fight ototoxicity and neurotoxicity. In this work, we examined Platin- A, a prodrug of cisplatin and aspirin, using preclinical mouse- and guinea pig-based models and demonstrated its efficacy with reduced ototoxicity. In addition, in vitro studies documented that when Platin- A is used in combination with a clinically relevant dose of radiation, its efficacy can further be improved by attacking cellular bioenergetic profiles, producing multiple modes of DNA damage, and delaying repair of damaged DNA. These studies demonstrated novel properties of the prodrug, Platin- A, highlighting its superior efficacy with reduced toxicity.