ECOTOXICOLOGY ASPECTS FROM POLICICLIC AROMATIC HYDROCARBONS (PAH).

Abstract

Policiclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAH) are considered priority organic pollutants in environmental researches. Some of these substances can be considered mutagenic and tumors precursors in biologic systems. PAH are formed exclusively by carbon and hydrogen atoms consisting of two or more fused aromatic rings arrangements. PAH are originated from incomplete burning of organic matter leading by different physics factors as temperature and pressure parameters. PAH are transported mainly through fine particles in atmosphere or aquatic environment and can reach distant areas far from its origins. PAH are lipophilic compounds and quickly absorbed by lung, intestine and skin from human and animals. Once absorbed by cells, PAH are metabolic activated and this way becomes reactive to nucleophilic groups of cellular macromolecules. The formation of DNA adducts is considered essential in the chemical carcinogenic of these xenobiotic compounds. The consummers of smoked foods, people that smokes, live in contaminated environment (e.g. water and air), and occupational workers who are exposed in a direct form to PAH present the higher risks of tumors and cancer development.