nitrogen mustards

Nitrogen mustards are a type of chemical compounds originally developed as chemotherapy agents to treat cancer. They contain a reactive nitrogen atom and serve to damage the DNA of rapidly dividing cells, such as cancer cells, hindering their ability to grow and reproduce. While effective against cancer, they can also affect healthy cells, leading to side effects. Additionally, nitrogen mustards are related to a class of chemical warfare agents known as vesicants or blister agents, which can cause severe skin and tissue damage upon exposure.