alkylating agents

Any of various highly reactive chemical compounds that bond with various nucleophilic groups in nucleic acids and proteins and cause mutagenic, carcinogenic, or cytotoxic effects.

A compound containing alkyl groups that combine readily with other molecules. Their action seems to be chiefly on the deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) in the nucleus of the cell. They are used in chemotherapy of cancer although they do not damage malignant cells selectively, but also have a toxic action on normal cells. Locally they cause blistering of the skin and damage to the eyes and respiratory tract. Systemic toxic effects are nausea and vomiting, reduction in both leukocytes and erythrocytes, and hemorrhagic tendencies. Among the agents of this group used in therapy are the nitrogen mustards, including mechlorethamine hydrochloride and chlorambucil, and busulfan and cyclophosphamide.
Also used for the inactivation of organisms in the preparation of vaccines as it does not significantly interfere with antigenicity. β-propiolactone is an example.