[Selective, controlled release of ruthenium-based therapeutic agents: a targeted weapon against ovarian cancer]

High-grade serous carcinoma is the most aggressive and prevalent form of ovarian cancer. It is characterized by high genetic heterogeneity, resistance to conventional chemotherapies, and generally poor prognosis. In response to these therapeutic challenges, ruthenium polypyridyl complexes have emerged as a promising alternative to platinum-based compounds. These complexes possess unique physicochemical properties and demonstrate significant anticancer activity while exhibiting reduced toxicity to healthy cells. Their mechanisms of action are still under investigation and include the induction of oxidative stress, the disruption of mitochondrial function, and the intercalation of DNA. Covalent encapsulation of these complexes in polymeric nanovectors enhances their solubility, in vivo stability, and targeted delivery to tumor cells, representing an innovative strategy. This article presents the main features of the polypyridyl ruthenium complexes developed by our research group and highlights our promising preclinical results regarding the development of an novel covalent encapsulation method for these complexes.