VR54

VR54 is a binuclear ruthenium(II)-platinum(II) coordination complex, specifically [Ru(tpy)(tpypma)Pt(Cl)(DMSO)](3+), where tpy is 2,2':6',2''-terpyridine and tpypma is 4-([2,2':6',2''-terpyridine]-4'-yl)-N-(pyridin-2-ylmethyl)aniline. It functions as a cytostatic anticancer agent that suppresses the proliferation of ovarian cancer cells, including cisplatin-resistant strains. Unlike traditional platinum-based drugs, VR54 does not induce DNA damage or significant cell death; instead, it binds DNA through non-intercalative reversible mechanisms and triggers G1 cell cycle arrest. This arrest is achieved by up-regulating the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor p27(KIP1) and inhibiting the phosphorylation of the retinoblastoma (Rb) protein, thereby blocking entry into the S phase.

Other names

[Ru(tpy)(tpypma)Pt(Cl)(DMSO)](3+)binuclear Ru(II)-Pt(II) complex