Methylnitrosourea Publisher



Khaleseh F¹ ; Chahardori M² ; Samadi M³
Source: Encyclopedia of Toxicology# Fourth Edition: Volume 1-9 Published:2023

Abstract

Methylnitrosourea (MNU, CAS 684-93-5) is a methylated nitrosourea compound with alkylating, mutagenic, teratogenic, carcinogenic, and cytotoxic properties. 7-Methyldeoxyguanosine effectively labels DNA alkylation adducts caused by alkylating agents, and it is a useful marker of recent exposure to MNU. MNU is currently used as a research chemical to develop animal models for human diseases. The teratogenic properties of MNU result in craniofacial defects, skeletal defects, and fetal growth retardation in laboratory animals. MNU is cytotoxic to certain tissues and cells via an apoptotic mechanism. Studies strongly indicate that MNU may be teratogenic, carcinogenic, and cytotoxic in humans. © 2024 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.