Some Biological Effects of Platinum Compounds

Abstract

Certain complexes of the platinum group metals exhibit interesting biological effects. At low concentrations some are effective bacteriocides; others stop cell division and force bacteria to grow into long filaments. These complexes can also induce destruction of lysogenic bacteria. Most important, perhaps, some of these complexes are very potent anti-tumour agents against a broad spectrum of tumours, and may shortly be used for cancer chemotherapy in humans.