Factors controlling endogenous N-nitrosation.

Table 4 summarizes the factors limiting endogenous N-nitrosation by bacteria and their likely relative importance. It is now well established that NNOCs are formed in large amounts in the hypochlorhydric stomach. Similar quantities would be expected in the urinary bladder when there is a complex flora. Large amounts would also be expected in the vagina of women with vaginitis, but only small amounts would be expected in saliva, in patients with small bowel overgrowth or in simple bladder infections.