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Oxidative activation of benzidine and its derivatives by peroxidases

Journal Article · · Environ. Health Perspect.; (United States)
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1289/ehp.8564171· OSTI ID:5176308
Benzidine (4,4'-diaminobiphenyl) is a known human carcinogen; exposure to this substance resulted in an epidemic of bladder cancer among workers in the dye industry in Europe and north America. The chemical or enzymatic oxidation of benzidine proceeds via a radical cation detectable by electron spin resonance. Peroxidase-catalyzed oxidation of benzidine generates reactive electrophiles which readily form adducts with phenol and thiol compounds. The structures of these novel metabolites are described. Peroxidases, including prostaglandin synthase, catalyze benizidine binding to protein and nucleic acid; the nature of the resulting adducts is unknown. The relevance of these processes to benzidine carcinogenesis in vivo is the subject of research and debate. A central question remains: is benzidine activated in extrahepatic target tissues such as bladder epithelium, or transported to these tissues following hepatic oxidative metabolism. 62 references.
Research Organization:
Univ. of Guelph, Ontario
OSTI ID:
5176308
Journal Information:
Environ. Health Perspect.; (United States), Journal Name: Environ. Health Perspect.; (United States) Vol. 64; ISSN EVHPA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English