Bioanalytical Strategies to Evaluate Cisplatin Nanodelivery Systems: From Synthesis to Incorporation in Individual Cells and Biological Response

Cisplatin metallodrugs have been widely used in the treatment of multiple cancers over the last years. Nevertheless, its limited effectiveness, development of acquired drug resistances, and toxic effects decrease nowadays their application in clinical settings. Aiming at improving their features, investigations have been oriented towards the coupling of cisplatin to nanocarriers, like liposomes or inorganic nanoparticles. Moreover, these systems can be further developed to allow targeted co-delivery of drugs. In this review, we describe the major nanosystems and the optimal analytical strategies for their assessment. Finally, we describe the main biological effects of these metallodrug conjugates and the available approaches for their study. [Display omitted] •A way to overcome cisplatin limitations in chemotherapy include the use of nanotransporters.•The most advantageous nanoformulations, particularly those of clinical use, are revisited here.•A plethora of bioanalytical tools for the evaluation of these nanodrug delivery systems is required.•They include the assessment of the synthetic product, evaluation of the in-vitro mode of action and final in-vivo application.•In some cases, the design of bioanalytical strategies “fitted to purpose” is also required, as highlighted.