Dicycloplatin, a Novel Analog of Cisplatin and Carboplatin, May Provide Therapeutic Advancement in Cancer Chemotherapy

Platinum-based chemotherapeutic agents have been the cornerstone in cancer treatment for decades. However, their clinical utility is often limited by severe adverse effects and the development of drug resistance. Dicycloplatin (DCP), a novel platinum analog developed in China, has emerged as a promising alternative with potentially improved therapeutic profiles. This review examines the development, pharmacology, molecular mechanism, and clinical applications of DCP in various cancer types. Available evidence suggests that DCP maintains similar efficacy to conventional platinum compounds while demonstrating reduced toxicity. Both intravenous and oral formulations have shown promising results, particularly in bladder cancer, lung cancer, and hepatocellular carcinoma. The first American bladder cancer patient treated with DCP achieved complete remission twice. The first achievement for the bladder primary tumor was in 2016 by 8-weeks IV DCP chemotherapy. The second complete remission of tumor recurrence was in 2021 after 7-weeks oral DCP therapy. This case highlights DCP potential clinical value. This review also discusses ongoing research, regulatory status, and future directions for DCP in cancer chemotherapy. While more extensive clinical trials are needed, particularly in Western populations. Current data suggest that DCP may represent a significant advancement in platinum-based chemotherapy, potentially offering improved quality of life for cancer patients without compromising treatment efficacy.