The alkylating agent m-N,N-bis(2-chloroethyl)aminocinnamic acid (m-ACA) and four new homo-aza-steroidal esters were studied for their ability to induce chromosomal abnormalities and to affect protein synthesis in human lymphocytes in vitro. A mitotic index reduction and an increase in the total number of aberrations were observed. Analysis of chromosomal abnormalities has shown that these are mainly chromatid breaks. A decrease in protein synthesis was also observed that seems to fit with the order of activity of the above compounds reflected in the induction of chromosomal aberrations. The observation that protein synthesis and the induction of chromosomal aberrations are affected by these chemicals may reflect interactions between these molecules and DNA that result in structural chromosome changes and decreased protein synthesis.