[Ru(DIP)2(bpy-Me)]Cl2

[Ru(DIP)2(bpy-Me)]Cl2, also known as Ru1, is a ruthenium(II) polypyridyl coordination complex being investigated as a photosensitizer for photodynamic therapy (PDT). The molecule consists of a central ruthenium(II) ion coordinated to two 4,7-diphenyl-1,10-phenanthroline (DIP) ligands and one 4-methyl-2,2'-bipyridine (bpy-Me) ligand. Developed by researchers at the Université de Strasbourg and the Institut de Cancérologie Strasbourg Europe, it is primarily studied for the treatment of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), particularly HPV-negative cell lines. Upon activation by white light, Ru1 acts as a potent phototoxin, inducing cancer cell death through pathways such as autophagy and ferroptosis. Unlike some other metal-based photosensitizers, Ru1 is designed for improved water solubility and has been shown to promote immunogenic cell death (ICD) signals while maintaining a balance of cellular stress that favors antitumor immunity over immune tolerance.

Other names

bis(4,7-diphenyl-1,10-phenanthroline)(4-methyl-2,2'-bipyridine)ruthenium(II) chloride