Chemotherapy is defined as the use of chemicals to
reach and damage cancer cells. On its way toward the tumor, the
drugs can affect healthy cells, as well. For example, cisplatin, a
common drug used in clinical treatments, is not selective and
causes unwanted secondary effects such as vomiting, fever and loss
of sensitivity, among others. These effects often halt the
treatment. It is of great importance to find new drugs that can be
selectively activated in the tumor for more effective treatments.
Understanding the interaction mechanism of new drug candidates
within the cell nano-environment is the first step toward reaching
the clinic.
