Reductive activation of nitroheterocyclic compounds.

1. Nitroaromatic compounds are important chemotherapy agents. 2. Their selective toxicity is determined by reduction to the biologically active form in the absence of oxygen. 3. Nitroaromatics are extensively used in the treatment of anaerobic infections and to target hypoxic tumor cells in cancer therapy. 4. Possible mutagenic action is related to the relative ease of nitro group reduction. 5. The mode of action and clinical application of nitroaromatic compounds is summarized.