ABSTRACT
Molecular formula: C8H11Cl2N3O2 Synonyms: Aminouracil mustard; Chlorethaminacil; Demethyldopan; Nordopan; Uracillost; Uramustin; Uramustine
Uracil mustard appears as creamy/off-white, odourless, crystalline powder. It is used as an anti-cancer medicine. Uracil mustard is a chemotherapy drug that belongs to the class of alkylating agents. It is used for its anti-neoplastic properties. It works by damaging deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), primarily in cancer cells that preferentially take up the uracil due to their need to make nucleic acids during their rapid cycles of cell division. At high concentrations of the drug, cellular RNA and protein synthesis are also suppressed. The DNA damage leads to apoptosis of the affected cells. Chemically it is a derivative of nitrogen mustard and uracil. Uracil mustard is a non-combustible substance itself; it does not burn but may decompose upon heating to produce corrosive and/or toxic fumes. Some are oxidisers and may ignite combustibles – wood, paper, oil, clothing, etc. Contact with metals may evolve ammable hydrogen gas. Containers may explode when heated.
