Metronidazole ('Flagyl'): mechanisms of radiosensitization

SummaryRadiation biochemical and bacterial studies have been undertaken to investigate possible mechanisms of radiosensitization by metronidazole. It is concluded that the nitro-group plays a major role in its action and that at least four mechanisms may be operative under hypoxic conditions.(i) enzyme-catalysed depletion of nucleophiles,(ii) fixation of organic radicals,(iii) interference with recombination reactions,(iv) formation of toxic products.