<unk>  is the transfer of an alkyl group from one molecule to another.  The alkyl group may be transferred as an alkyl carbocation, a free radical, a carbanion or a carbene (or their equivalents).<unk> g agents are widely used in chemistry because the alkyl group is probably the most common group encountered in organic molecules. Many biological target molecules or their synthetic precursors comprise of an alkyl chain, with specific functional groups in a specific order. Selective<unk> , or adding parts to the chain with the desired functional groups, is used, especially if there is no commonly available biological precursor.
In oil refining contexts,<unk>  refers to a particular<unk>  of isobutane with olefins. It is a major aspect of the upgrading of petroleum.<unk> g agents are often very toxic, due to their ability to alkylate DNA. They should be handled with proper PPE. This mechanism of toxicity is also responsible for the ability of some<unk> g agents to perform as anti-cancer drugs in the form of<unk> g antineoplastic agents, and also as chemical weapons such as mustard gas.
Alkylation
Hydroxylation
Carboxylation
Biotinylation
Glucuronidation
Hydrogenation
Autoxidation
Palmitoylation