The synthesis, characterization and effects on cell cycle arrest and induced apoptosis of the ruthenium(II) complex [Ru(Trp)(dppb)(bipy)]PF6 (Trp = tryptophan; dppb = 1,4-bis(diphenylphosphine)butane bipy = 2,2′-bipyridine) are reported. The complex was characterized by elemental analysis, spectroscopic and electrochemical techniques. It showed higher cytotoxic potential against Ehrlich tumor cells than L-929 basal cells, causing a decrease in cell proliferation and inducing cell death by apoptosis.