Impact of cellular metabolism on the biological effects of benzo[a]pyrene and related hydrocarbons

Kimberly P. Miller, Kenneth S. Ramos

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

289 Scopus citations

Abstract

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons are ubiquitous contaminants in the environment. Benzo[a]pyrene (BaP). a prototypical member of this class of chemicals, has been extensively studied for its toxic effects in laboratory, animals and human populations. BaP toxicity is often mediated by oxidative metabolism to reactive intermediates that interact with macromolecules leading to alterations in target cell structure and function. More recent evidence suggests that disruption of cellular signaling pathways involved in the regulation of growth and differentiation contribute significantly to the toxicity of BaP and its metabolites. This review summarizes recent advances in our understanding of biological mechanisms of BaP toxicity at the molecular level, and the role of metabolic intermediates in carcinogenesis, atherogenesis, and teratogenesis.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)1-35
Number of pages35
JournalDrug Metabolism Reviews
Volume33
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - 2001

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmaceutics(all)
  • Pharmacology (medical)

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