Chrysene

Chrysene (CAS-218-01-9) is a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) and one of the natural constituents in coal tar. It is produced as smoke during incomplete combustion of coal, gasoline, garbage, animal, and plant materials. Chrysene is highly lipophilic, and has low vapor pressure. Human exposure occurs from the inhalation of the polluted air. Very high level of chrysene is found in the environment in the air, and a smaller percentage in soil or water. Chrysene undergoes photo-activated free radical reaction with hydroxyl radical. Chrysene produces diol epoxides as metabolites. Even though, there are no direct evidence of chrysene as a carcinogen in human, but, PAHs are potent carcinogens and chrysene is one of the PAHs. Chrysene caused increased incidence of liver tumors in male and female mice.