Carcinogens that are present in the body will be converted into forms that will be able to bind to the DNA. This process is called activation. During activation of carcinogens, the enzyme cytochrome P450 will form electrophilic reactive intermediates that are able to bind to the DNA. This reaction will create adducts (carcinogen and DNA bonded) and will be able to give rise to mutations. 

How do carcinogens affect DNA?

Urinary biomarkers are the most widely applied biomarkers for carciniogens from tobacco usage. Urine is predominantly used because it can be captured in such large quantities. Attached is an image of the most common carcinogens in urine from smokers. 

Common Biomarkers

Carcinogens can either be inhaled or absorbed by the skin. They will be absorbed into the blood and tissues. They have the ability to damage the cell's DNA. Researchers know that carcinogens are absorbed into the body due to biomarkers that are present in blood, urine, and breath. Biomarkers are  biological molecules present in body fluids or tissues.

State University of New York at Stony Brook

Carcinogens are any substance that will contribute to the formation of cancers. Carcinogens range from naturally occurring compounds to radioactive substances. Carcinogens consist of two categories: Genotoxic compounds and non-genotoxic compounds. 


What are carcinogens? 

 Hurley, S, Winnall, WR, Greenhalgh, EM & Winstanley, MH. 3.3 Smoking and cancer. In Greenhalgh, EM, Scollo, MM and Winstanley, MH [editors].  Tobacco in Australia: Facts and issues. Melbourne: Cancer Council Victoria; 2020. Available from  http://www.tobaccoinaustralia.org.au/chapter-3-health-effects/3-3-smoking-and-cancer

Smoking and Cancer 

How do carcinogens get into the body?

Genotoxic carcinogens will change the sequence of a cell’s DNA. As we know, DNA is a long chain of repeated molecular units that dictate the growth, function, and development of the cell. DNA sequence changes can lead to problems of uncontrolled growth and later cancer. The non-genotoxic effects of cigarette smoke can also contribute to cancer formation without changing DNA sequencing. changing the sequencing of the DNA. Their mode of transportation can be seen in creating oxidative stress, intercepting hormonal and signal transduction pathways, and epigenetics

What is the difference between genotoxic and non-genotoxic? 

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs)
,N-nitrosamines
,aldehydes
,volatile organic hydrocarbons and metals



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