Carmustine induces ERK- and JNK-dependent cell death of neuronally-differentiated PC12 cells via generation of reactive oxygen species

► Carmustine induces cell death associated with caspase-3 activation in differentiated PC12 cells. ► Carmustine inhibits GR activity and decreases glutathione levels, causing ROS accumulation. ► Carmustine-induced caspase-3 activation and cell death are prevented by NAC, trolox, and DTT. ► Carmustine triggers phosphorylation of MAPKs, such as ERK, JNK, and p38, which is inhibited by NAC. ► Inhibitors of JNK and ERK prevent carmustine-induced cell death and caspase-3 activation.