Abstract 5-Halo-N (1)-substituted 2 (1H)-pyrimidinones have the ability to cause reversible arrest of mitosis during metaphase. Highly active compounds have a heteroatom (O, S or N) in the β-position of the N (1)-carbon chain which is further substituted by an aryl group. In vitro data have been provided. It is suggested that reversible metaphase inhibitors can be used as synchronizing agents of cell-cycles by applying them in a sequential manner ...
