ALKYLATING AGENT Introduction Alkylating agents are named because they can add an alkyl group to a molecule. Alkylating agents can add alkyl groups to molecules in a variety of ways. One common way is through a process called nucleophilic substitution . In nucleophilic substitution, an alkylating agent reacts with a molecule that has a nucleophilic atom, such as a nitrogen atom or an oxygen atom. The nucleophilic atom attacks the alkylating agent, and the alkyl group is transferred to the molecule. Definition: An alkylating agent is a substance that causes replacement of hydrogen by an alkyl group especially in a biologically important molecule; specifically : one with mutagenic activity that inhibits cell division and growth and is used to treat some cancers. Mode of Action of Alkylating Agents: Alkylating agents are a type of anticancer drugs that work by damaging the DNA of cancer cells and preventing them from replicating . They have a chemical structur...
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