Antitumor activity of tetraacetylglucosamine mustard.

1,3,4,6-Tetra-O-acetyl-2-(di-2-chloroethyl)amino-2-deoxy-D-glucopyranose is active against L1210 leukemia, giving over 100% increased life-span at optimal dose. Against P388 leukemia, it gives 200% increased life-span with long-term survivors. The compound is most active when given i.p., but shows some activity when given s.c. than p.o., and is more potent (therapeutic and toxic effect) than mechlorethamine on both a molar and a mg basis. Of importance, the schedule dependency for the administration of 1,3,4,6-tetra-O-acetyl-2-(di-2-chloroethyl)amino-2-deoxy-D-glucopyranose in L1210 leukemia differs from most alkylating agents in that it is best given by multiple daily injections rather than as a single large injection on Day 1. This characteristic can be attributed to the amino-glucose moiety.