[Comparative evaluation of the antitumor, cytogenetic and immunodepressive effects of dimetinur when used perorally and parenterally].

The dimethylnitrosourea action after oral and parenteral administration was comparatively evaluated on the basis of criteria for the antitumour and cytogenetic activity, as well as for the immune (T-cell) reactivity of tumour-bearing and intact animals. A considerable antitumour effect and the induction of the overload chromosomal aberrations in tumour cells with the complete preservation of bone marrow cells were observed during the oral drug application. Dimethyl nitrosourea-induced T-cell depression in murine spleen was transitory and reversible. Thus the oral administration of the drug was shown to be optimal for realization of its therapeutical activity with the least toxic side effect on the host normal hemopoietic and immunocompetent cells.