alkylating agent
noun
: 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
Word History
First Known Use
1900, in the meaning defined above
Dictionary Entries Near alkylating agent
Cite this Entry
“Alkylating agent.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/alkylating%20agent. Accessed 16 Apr. 2024.
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Medical Definition
alkylating agent
noun
: 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
More from Merriam-Webster on alkylating agent
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about alkylating agent
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