Platins

Platins

Platins, also known as platinum-based drugs, are a class of chemotherapy agents used in the treatment of various types of cancer. These drugs contain platinum, a heavy metal, as a central component of their molecular structure. The most commonly used platins in clinical practice include Cisplatin, Carboplatin, and Oxaliplatin.

History

The discovery of the anticancer properties of platinum compounds dates back to the 1960s. Cisplatin was the first platinum-based drug to be approved for clinical use, revolutionizing the treatment of testicular and ovarian cancers. Subsequent developments led to the creation of Carboplatin and Oxaliplatin, which have different toxicity profiles and are used in various cancer treatment regimens.

Mechanism of Action

Platins exert their anticancer effects primarily through the formation of DNA cross-links. These cross-links inhibit DNA replication and transcription, ultimately leading to cell death. The platinum atom in these drugs binds to the N7 position of guanine bases in DNA, forming intrastrand and interstrand cross-links that disrupt the DNA double helix.

Clinical Use

Platins are used to treat a wide range of cancers, including:

• Testicular cancer
• Ovarian cancer
• Lung cancer
• Colorectal cancer
• Bladder cancer

The choice of a specific platinum-based drug depends on the type of cancer, the stage of the disease, and the patient's overall health.

Side Effects

Common side effects of platinum-based chemotherapy include:

• Nephrotoxicity (kidney damage)
• Neurotoxicity (nerve damage)
• Ototoxicity (hearing loss)
• Myelosuppression (bone marrow suppression)

The severity of these side effects varies among the different platins, with Cisplatin being more nephrotoxic and Oxaliplatin being more neurotoxic.

Resistance

Cancer cells can develop resistance to platinum-based drugs through various mechanisms, such as increased DNA repair, drug efflux, and detoxification. Research is ongoing to overcome resistance and improve the efficacy of these drugs.

Research and Development

New platinum compounds and combination therapies are being investigated to enhance the effectiveness and reduce the toxicity of platinum-based chemotherapy. These include novel delivery systems and the development of platinum analogs with different chemical properties.

Also see

• Chemotherapy
• Antineoplastic agents
• DNA cross-linking
• Cancer treatment