Pharmacological studies on MCNU: A new antitumor agent

Abstract

The pharmacological properties of MCNU, methyl 6-[3-(2-chloroethyl)-3-nitrosoureido]-6-deoxy-α-D-glucopyranoside, were investigated in laboratory animals. MCNU had no effects on the central nervous, respiratory or the cardiovascular systems, but dilation of isolated auricular vessel was seen. No local anesthetic activity was demonstrated. Treatment with MCNU had practically no influence on the contraction of the isolated phrenic nerve-diaphragm, ileum, vas deferens or uterus. Furthermore, no effects on the passage of charcoal meal, size of the pupil and the contraction of nictitating membrane were observed. MCNU caused a reduction of leucocyte counts, suppression of immunine responses, local irritation, suppression of blood coagulating activity and slight inhibition of gastric secretion. No definite effects were observed on blood glucose level or renal and liver functions. MCNU had no antiinflammatory and diuretic activities and did not cause hemolysis. Vomiting and diarrhea were observed by the administration of MCNU. In conclusion, the major pharmacological effects of MCNU are reduction of leukocyte counts, local irritation and immuno-suppression. The reduction of leukocyte counts induced by MCNU was more significant than that by chlorozotocin, but less than that by CCNU. Other effects may be considered somewhat weak or almost the same extent compared with these agents.