Cisplatin (cw-diamminedichloroplatinum II; CDDP) is a broad spectrum anti-cancer agent with severe toxic side effects. New platinum based chemotherapeutic agents with similar properties are in constant development. Poly-plat (Poly-[(teans-l,2-diaminocyclohexane) platinum]-carboxyamylose), a novel second generation platinum chemotherapeutic agent, has been shown to be less toxic compared to CDDP. The purpose of this paper was to examine the morphological changes in the Kupffer cells in the liver after poly-plat treatment in rats and compare the results obtained after CDDP. Peripheral blood was also examined for levels of circulating leukocytes.

Wistar rats (120-160 g) were given intraperitoneal injections of either CDDP (9 mg/kg in 0.9% sodium chloride) or poly-plat (10 mg/kg in 0.9% sodium chloride) over a five day period. Controls were treated with equal amounts of the vehicle of injection. Peripheral blood was collected via tail vein beginning 1 day prior to treatment and continuing 10 days after treatment.