Are hydrocarbons carcinogenic?

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are a class of widespread environmental carcinogens. It has been established that PAHs, after metabolic activation in vivo, are capable of inducing mutations in oncogenes and, by inducing multiple mutations, may result in tumors.

Which hydrocarbon has carcinogenic property?

The hydrocarbon said to possess carcinogenic property was Polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs).

What does it mean if a chemical is carcinogenic?

Chemical Carcinogens are compounds which can cause cancer in humans and experimental animals. This property is attributed to many chemicals in the public discussion, resulting in a widespread perception of danger and threat.

Are all aromatics carcinogenic?

Aromatic compounds are frequently carcinogenic because their physical molecular structures frequently contain five and six carbon rings.

Why is PAH carcinogenic?

Although proteins and cell membranes can be important photo-damage targets for PAHs, much work have concentrated on DNA damages. This is possibly due to the carcinogenic nature of PAH molecules, which have usually been associated with DNA covalent adduct formation after metabolic activation.

Why do hydrocarbons say carcinogenic property?

Benzene and polynuclear hydrocarbons containing more than two benzene rings fused together are toxic and said to possess cancer producing property. Such polynuclear hydrocarbons are formed on incomplete combustion of organic material like tobacco, coal and petroleum. They damage DNA and cause cancer.

How is PAH related to carcinogens?

Evidence indicates that mixtures of PAHs are carcinogenic to humans. The evidence comes primarily from occupational studies of workers exposed to mixtures containing PAHs. Such long-term studies have shown an increased risk of predominantly skin and lung as well as bladder and gastrointestinal cancers.