Nitrosoureas

Definition

Nitrosoureas are a class of chemotherapeutic agents known for their ability to cross the blood-brain barrier. They work by alkylating DNA and RNA, which disrupts cancer cell function and replication.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Nitrosoureas are effective against both brain tumors and metastatic brain cancers due to their ability to cross the blood-brain barrier.
2. Common nitrosoureas include carmustine (BCNU) and lomustine (CCNU).
3. These drugs can cause delayed bone marrow suppression, leading to decreased blood cell counts weeks after treatment.
4. Nitrosoureas alkylate DNA at the O6 position of guanine, causing breaks in the DNA strands that inhibit cancer cell replication.
5. They are administered either intravenously or orally depending on the specific drug.

Review Questions

• What characteristic allows nitrosoureas to be effective in treating brain tumors?
• Name two common nitrosourea drugs used in chemotherapy.
• What is a significant delayed side effect of nitrosourea treatment?

Related terms

Alkylating Agents: A class of chemotherapeutic drugs that work by adding an alkyl group to DNA, preventing cancer cells from proliferating.

Blood-Brain Barrier: A selective permeability barrier that protects the brain from foreign substances but also makes it challenging for many drugs to reach brain tissues.

Bone Marrow Suppression: A decrease in bone marrow activity resulting in reduced production of blood cells, often a side effect of chemotherapy.