The binding to mouse skin DNA of benzo[a]pyrene, its 7,8-diol and 7,8-diol-9,10-epoxides in relation to the tumorigenicity of these compounds.

Tritium labelled and carbon-14 labelled benzo[a]pyrene (PB), (+/-)trans 7,8-dihydroxy-7,8-dihydrobenzo[a]pyrene (PB-7,8-diol), (+/-)-7 alpha,8 beta-dihydroxy-9 beta,10 beta-epoxy-7,8,9,10-tetrahydrobenzo[a]pyrene and (+/-)-7 alpha, 8 beta-dihydroxy-9 alpha, 10 alpha-epoxy-7,8,9,10-tetrahydrobenzo[a]-pyrene were applied to the shaved backs of mice. After 24 h the DNA was isolated from the treated skin and the extent of hydrocarbon binding was determined. The level of DNA binding is considered in relation to the previously reported carcinogenicity of the various benzo[a]pyrene derivatives.