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Published on: February 7, 2021
Pt(IV) antitumor prodrugs: dogmas, paradigms, and realities
Mauro Ravera1, Elisabetta Gabano1, Michael J McGlinchey2
1Dipartimento di Scienze e Innovazione Tecnologica, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Viale Michel 11, Alessandria, Italy. domenico.osella@uniupo.it.
Abstract:
Platinum(II)-based drugs are widely used for the treatment of solid tumors, especially in combination protocols. Severe side effects and occurrence of resistance are the major limitations to their clinical use. To overcome these drawbacks, a plethora of Pt(IV) derivatives, acting as anticancer prodrugs, have been designed, synthesized and preclinically (often only in vitro) tested. Here, we summarize the recent progress in the development and understanding of the chemical properties and biochemical features of these Pt(IV) prodrugs, especially those containing bioactive molecules as axial ligands, acting as multi-functional agents. Even though no such prodrugs have been yet approved for clinical use, many show encouraging pharmacological profiles. Thus, a better understanding of their features is a promising approach towards improving the available Pt-based anticancer agents.
Insights
Platinum(IV) prodrugs offer a promising alternative to platinum(II) anticancer drugs by reducing side effects and overcoming resistance. Research into their chemical and biochemical properties aims to improve platinum-based cancer therapies.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Medicinal Chemistry
- Drug Development
Background:
- Platinum(II)-based drugs are mainstays in solid tumor treatment but face limitations like severe side effects and drug resistance.
- Platinum(IV) prodrugs are being developed as advanced anticancer agents to circumvent these challenges.
- Many Pt(IV) derivatives incorporate bioactive molecules as axial ligands, creating multi-functional therapeutic agents.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in the development and chemical understanding of platinum(IV) prodrugs.
- To highlight the biochemical features and therapeutic potential of Pt(IV) agents, particularly those with bioactive axial ligands.
- To explore the promise of Pt(IV) prodrugs as next-generation platinum-based anticancer therapies.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent preclinical studies on platinum(IV) prodrugs.
- Analysis of chemical properties and synthesis strategies for Pt(IV) derivatives.
- Evaluation of biochemical characteristics and pharmacological profiles of Pt(IV) anticancer agents.
Main Results:
- Numerous Pt(IV) prodrugs have been designed and synthesized, showing potential in preclinical settings.
- Pt(IV) prodrugs with bioactive axial ligands demonstrate multi-functional therapeutic capabilities.
- While none are clinically approved, many Pt(IV) prodrugs exhibit encouraging pharmacological profiles.
Conclusions:
- Platinum(IV) prodrugs represent a significant advancement over traditional platinum(II) agents.
- Further understanding of Pt(IV) prodrug chemistry and biochemistry is crucial for clinical translation.
- These agents hold promise for improving the efficacy and safety of platinum-based cancer treatment.
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