The influence of simple aromatics on benzene clastogenicity

The micronucleus test was performed in male ICR Swiss mice following modification of benzene metabolism by co-administration of aniline, pyridine or napythalene, or by prior injection of α-naphthoflavone. HPLC profiles of urinary metabolites were compared to the effects of these compounds on clastogenicity. Pyridine inhibited both benzene clastogenicity and its metabolism. Aniline and naphthalene increase the clastogenicity and slightly altered the metabolism of benzene. α-Naphthoflavone inhibited benzene increase the metabolism of benzene but noly 3-methylcholanthrene increases benzene clastogenicity, specific P450 isozymes may be responsible for different biological effects benzene, and alterations in these effects might be caused by a shift from the isozyme to another.