Elucidating the reactivity of Pt(II) complexes with (O,S) bidentate ligands towards DNA model systems

In the search for novel platinum-based anticancer therapeutic agents, we have recently established a structural motif of (O,S) bidentate ligands bound to a Pt(II) metal center which is effective against various cancer cell lines. Aiming at further enhancing the cytotoxicity of metal-based drugs, the identification of potential biological targets and elucidation of the mode of action of selected lead compounds is of utmost importance. Here we report our studies on the DNA interaction of three representative Pt(II) complexes of the investigated series, using various model systems and analytical techniques. In detail, CD spectroscopy as well as ESI-MS and MS(2) techniques were applied to gain an overall picture of the binding properties of this class of (O,S) bidentate Pt(II) compounds with defined oligonucleotide sequences in single strand, duplex or G-quadruplex form, as well as with the nucleobase 9-methylguanine. On the whole, it was demonstrated that the tested compounds interact with DNA and produce conformational changes of different extents depending on the sequence and structure of the examined oligonucleotide. Guanine was established as the preferential target within the DNA sequence, but in the absence or unavailability of guanines, alternative binding sites can be addressed. The implications of these results are thoroughly discussed.