PCNU

**Semantic type:** Organic Chemical|Pharmacologic Substance

**Definition:** A chloroethylnitrosourea compound and an alkylating agent with antineoplastic property. PCNU inhibits DNA synthesis by alkylating DNA and causing DNA cross links, thereby inducing apoptosis. In addition, this agent may be associated with pulmonary, hepatic, and hematologic toxicities. Unlike other nitrosoureas, PCNU has strong alkylating while weak carbamoylating activity.

**Synonyms:** - 1-(2-CHLOROETHYL)-3-(2,6-DIOXO-3-PIPERIDYL)-1-NITROSOUREA - 1-(2-Chloroethyl)-3-(2,6-Dioxo-3-Piperidyl)-1-Nitrourea - Urea, N-(2-chloroethyl)-N'-(2,6-dioxo-3-piperidinyl)-N-nitroso-