4-Nitroacetophenone

4-Nitroacetophenone is an organic compound that has been synthesized in an asymmetric synthesis. It is a nitro compound and a radiosensitizer. The chemical structure of 4-Nitroacetophenone is similar to the structure of phenol, with one nitro group and two hydroxyl groups at opposite ends of the molecule. 4-Nitroacetophenone reacts with radiation to produce free radicals that can damage DNA, RNA, and proteins. The reaction mechanism involves the formation of nitrosating agent (R−NO) which interacts with DNA to form a covalent bond between the DNA base and the nitrosating agent. This covalent bond inhibits DNA replication, leading to cell death. 4-Nitroacetophenone has been shown to be effective in inhibiting cell growth in culture by triggering apoptosis in cells treated with high doses of this drug.