Hydroxyurea, crystalline powder

Hydroxyurea is a inhibitor of DNA synthesis in vivo, and an antiviral and antineoplastic agent which is S-phase specific.

A ribonucleotide reductase inhibitor - inhibits by forming a free radical nitroxide that binds a tyrosyl free radical in the active site of the enzyme. Induces fetal hemoglobin production in sickle cell anemia patients.

It induces apoptosis of in vitro myelogenous leukemia lymphocytes, and the phosphorylation of FADD and p53. It is also used to reduce the rate of painful attacks in sickle-cell disease and has antiretroviral properties in diseases such as AIDS.

It is Anti-neoplastic. It inactivates ribonucleoside reductase by forming a free radical nitroxide that binds a tyrosyl free radical in the active site of the enzyme. This blocks the synthesis of deoxynucleotides, which inhibits DNA synthesis and induces synchronisation or cell death in S-phase.

Freely soluble in water (50 mg/ml-clear colourless solution) or hot alcohol.