Preparation, structure, cytotoxicity and mechanism of action of ferritin-Pt(II) terpyridine compound nanocomposites.

AIM: A Pt(II)-terpyridine compound, bearing two piperidine substituents at positions 2 and 2' of the terpyridine ligand (1), is highly cytotoxic and shows a mechanism of action distinct from cisplatin. 1 has been incorporated within the ferritin nanocage (AFt).

MATERIALS & METHODS: Spectroscopic and crystallographic data of the Pt(II)-AFt nanocomposite have been collected and in vitro anticancer activity has been explored using cancer cells.

RESULTS: Pt(II)-containing fragments bind His49, His114 and His132. Pt(II)-AFt nanocomposite is less cytotoxic than 1, but it is more toxic than cisplatin at high concentrations. The Pt(II)-AFt nanocomposite triggers necrosis in cancer cells, as free 1 does.

CONCLUSION: Pt(II)-AFt nanocomposites are promising vehicles to deliver Pt-based drugs to cancer cells.