Advanced Topic 705 of 1102 Inorganic Chemistry
Cisplatin
A platinum complex used as a chemotherapy drug that binds DNA.
In-depth explanation of Cisplatin
Cisplatin, cis-[PtCl2(NH3)2], is a square planar platinum(II) complex used as an anticancer drug for testicular, ovarian and other cancers. Inside cells its chloride ligands are replaced by water, and the activated platinum binds to the N7 position of guanine bases in DNA. This forms intrastrand cross-links that distort the double helix and block replication, which triggers cell death in rapidly dividing cells. The cis geometry is essential, because the trans isomer is inactive. Side effects include kidney damage and nerve damage.
Going deeper: Cisplatin
Key ideas: cis-[Pt(NH3)2Cl2], a square planar Pt(II) anticancer drug. Inside cells where chloride is low (about 4 mM, versus 100 mM outside), Cl- is replaced by water (aquation), and the activated complex binds N7 of adjacent guanines in DNA, forming intrastrand crosslinks that bend DNA and block replication, triggering apoptosis. The trans isomer is inactive, as it cannot form these chelate crosslinks. Side effects include kidney damage and nausea.
Common mistakes and connections: Students believe both isomers are equally active; geometric isomerism matters in drugs. The drug is not active in the bottle and is stored in saline to prevent aquation. The platinum remains Pt(II). Resistance arises from DNA repair. Links to geometric isomerism, ligand substitution kinetics (trans effect) and coordination chemistry.
Visualization of Cisplatin
Cisplatin, cis-[PtCl2(NH3)2], has two ammonia ligands bonded through the nitrogen lone pair to square planar platinum(II). The interactive lesson shows this as a live animation or chart.
Worked example and use case
Cisplatin is used to treat testicular cancer, often together with other anticancer agents.
Frequently asked questions about Cisplatin
What is Cisplatin?
A platinum complex used as a chemotherapy drug that binds DNA.
Is Cisplatin a beginner, intermediate or advanced topic?
Cisplatin is a advanced topic in Inorganic Chemistry. It builds on beginner and intermediate topics, so review those first if needed.
What should I learn before Cisplatin?
Study these earlier topics in Inorganic Chemistry first: Bioinorganic Chemistry, Hemoglobin, Chlorophyll.
What comes after Cisplatin?
The next topics in Inorganic Chemistry are Qualitative Analysis of Cations and Qualitative Analysis of Anions.
Can I practise Cisplatin with quizzes?
Yes. The interactive lesson includes a self-check question on Cisplatin, and the Inorganic Chemistry quiz draws on every topic in this area.
Where Cisplatin fits in Inorganic Chemistry
Cisplatin is topic 90 of 113 in Inorganic Chemistry.