DNA alkylator
DNA alkylating agent
- Alkylates/cross-links DNA → blocks replication and triggers cell death
- Kills proliferating tumor — and marrow and germ cells
- Secondary malignancy risk persists for years
- Cross-links DNA, halting replication
- Myelosuppression; secondary malignancy risk
Drugs with this mechanism (2)
- Phosphoramide mustard — DNA-crosslinking metabolite responsible for much of cyclophosphamide's antitumor activity; also drives marrow and reproductive toxicity.
- Procarbazine — DNA-damaging chemotherapy used in lymphoma and brain-tumor regimens; weak MAO inhibition adds food and drug interaction concerns.
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