N-Nitroso-N-Methylurea

N-Nitroso-N-Methylurea (NMU) is a highly potent, directly-acting alkylating agent that has been widely used in experimental oncology for the induction of tumors in animals.

Chemistry

NMU is a nitrosourea compound, a class of drugs that also includes carmustine and lomustine. It is a small, highly reactive molecule that can easily penetrate cell membranes. Its chemical formula is C2H5N3O2.

Mechanism of Action

NMU acts by transferring its methyl group to DNA, RNA, and proteins, causing damage and disruption of normal cellular processes. The methylation of DNA is particularly harmful, as it can lead to mutations and the initiation of cancer. NMU is most effective against rapidly dividing cells, which is why it is used primarily in cancer research.

Use in Research

In experimental oncology, NMU is used to induce tumors in laboratory animals for the study of cancer development and the testing of new chemotherapy drugs. It is particularly effective at inducing breast cancer in rats and mice, and has been used to create animal models of human breast cancer.

Safety

Due to its high reactivity and carcinogenicity, NMU must be handled with extreme care. It is a potent mutagen and a suspected human carcinogen. Exposure can occur through inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact, and can cause severe health effects including cancer and damage to the central nervous system.

See Also

• Alkylating antineoplastic agent
• Carcinogenesis
• DNA methylation