Analysis of benzo[a]pyrene deactivation mechanisms in rats

The experimental data on the effects of a widespread carcinogen, benzo[a]pyrene (BP), on individual reactions of rats were treated using mathematical-statistical methods. The individual reactions were analyzed in dependence of doses and modes of administration (single or chronic). The analysis revealed a statistically significant correlation between life span and urinary content of (+/-)-trans-7,8-dihydroxy-7,8-dihydrobenzo[a]pyrene (7,8-BP) in rats treated with BP. The calculated regression equations revealed that the individual sensitivity to carcinogen in case of the BP single administration to rats is mainly determined by efficiency of excretion of the BP active forms out of the organism, whereas after chronic BP administration it is determined by mechanisms of enzymatic deactivation of BP.