Synthesis of several 4,4'- dialkyl-2,2'-bipyridine complexes of Pt (II) has been accomplished in an effort to isolate a more effective analogue of Cisplatin by substitution of different polar functional groups at the terminus of the alkyl chain. Treatment of the dilithio-anion of 4,4'-dimethyl-2,2'-bipyridine with the appropriate alkyl halides affords the bipyridyl ligands. Reaction of the bipyridine ligands with (COD)PtCl₂ yields the target Pt (II) complex. 4,4'-Dimethyl-2,2'-bipyridine ligand complexed with PtCl₂ has increased cytotoxicity relative to Cisplatin in cancerous breast, lung, and prostate tissues. There is no clear mechanism established for the action of this complex. However, preliminary results for –CH₂CH₂CH₂X groups in the 4,4'-position also show improved cytotoxicity.