•
Mustargen as antitumor agent evolved from observed effects of mustard gas
in ww1
•
Depression of the hematopoietic system was observed in survivors
•
Nitrogen mustard is an alkylating agent
•
First non-hormonal chemical demonstrating clear clinical antitumor
activity
•
Studies published in 1946 demonstrated regression especially of lymphomas
•
Nitrogen mustard (mechlorethamine, mustargen) and other less toxic and
more clinically effective derivatives were developed
Mustargen and the history of alkylating agents
Colvin OM. History of the alkylating agents; 19(3):363-371.