Dibenzanthracenes and Environmental Carcinogenesis

First published in 1992, this volume provides a systematic survey of the dibenzanthracenes and of their chemical, physiochemical and biological properties. The carcinogenic potential of the dibenzanthracenes - an important subclass of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons - has been extensively studied and documented since their identification as animal skin carcinogens was first demonstrated in the 1930s. the volume treats the nomenclature, the chemical and physical properties and the synthesis and preparation of the five principal isomers of the dibenzanthracenes series: dibenz (a, h),- dibenz (a, c), -dibenz (aj) anthracene, benzo(a)naphthacene and pentacene. Other chapters are devoted to their occurrence and analysis in the environment, in industrial processes and effluents, and in foodstuffs. The second part addresses their biological activity and reviews the metabolism, cellular interactions, toxicology mutagenicity and carcinogenicity of the dibenzanthracenes. The final chapter is devoted to structure-activity relationships in this class of aromatic compounds. This is the first comprehensive account of this important group of environmental pollutants and carcinogens. It will be of interest to all scientists studying carcinogenesis, and the mutagenicity and toxicology of environmental pollutants.K