Formation of DNA adducts and water-soluble metabolites of benzo[a]pyrene in human monocytes is genetically controlled.

Formation of DNA adducts and of water-soluble metabolites was studied in monocytes of 86 first-degree relatives of 15 families. Tests were performed with blood monocytes using (G-3H)-benzo[a]pyrene as a model pro-carcinogen. Variance analysis revealed significantly higher inter-familial than intra-familial variations. From these data we conclude that the formation of DNA adducts is genetically controlled. Therefore the enhanced formation of benzo[a]pyrene DNA adducts in lung cancer patients found in earlier studies may reflect a genetic predisposition for lung cancer in some patients.