A mitochondria-targeting hetero-binuclear Ir(iii)-Pt(ii) complex induces necrosis in cisplatin-resistant tumor cells.

A hetero-binuclear Ir(iii)-Pt(ii) complex was developed as an antitumor agent. In vitro cytotoxicity results indicated that this complex was effective against cisplatin-resistant tumor cells. Mechanism experiments showed that it can overcome cisplatin resistance by increasing cellular uptake, targeting mitochondria, and inducing cell necrosis.