We used cDNA arrays to monitor modulation of mRNA expression after exposure to a multinuclear platinum complex (BBR3464) in a human cervix squamous cell carcinoma cell line (A431) and in a cisplatin-resistant subline (A431/Pt) exhibiting collateral sensitivity to BBR3464. In parental A431cells, the drug induced at least twofold up-regulation of 15 genes including cell cycle and growth regulators, tumor suppressors and signal transduction genes. In cisplatin-resistant A431/Pt cells, BBR3464increased the expression of 15 genes such as apoptosis regulators and genes involved in the DNA damage response. Interestingly, BBR3464induced up-regulation of anti-metastatic factors together with down-regulation of several pro-metastatic factors. Cell cycle analysis indicated a marked G2arrest in treated A431cells, whereas an apoptotic response was documented in A431/Pt cells. These differential patterns of transcriptional profile in sensitive and resistant cells are consistent with a role for cell cycle regulation in the response to BBR3464.