Some data may have been extracted from scientific literature using a pipeline that uses large language models (LLMs). Source articles are cited where applicable to help verify the extracted relationships.
Phenanthrene belongs to the phenanthrenes and derivatives, a class of benzenoids within the organic compounds. It has the formula C14H10 and an average molecular weight of 178.23 g/mol. At room temperature, this exogenous compound exists as a solid. It acts as a biological inhibitor and an environmental contaminant (PMC10909871 ).
Phenanthrene is associated with 36 recorded sources, including indoor air, drinking water, and various household cleaning and consumer products such as soap detergents, perfumes within detergents and soaps, bleaching agents, cigar cigarettes, and non electric simulated smoking devices. It is found in food processing and cookware, specifically in the preparation of malt, food preservation, food contact materials, and fermentation processes for beer. Additionally, it is found in building and construction materials, such as sunshades awnings or outside screens, and electrical and electronic equipment, including discharge lamps, electric switches, antennas, auxiliary devices, and conductors or conductive bodies characterised by the conductive materials. Regarding plastics, phenanthrene is used in low-density polyethylene and high-density polyethylene, is present in polyvinyl chloride, and is released in polystyrene, polyethylene terephthalate, and polypropylene. Recorded exposure routes include touch, oral, and inhalation (PMC4735870 , PMC7364716 ).
The compound targets five proteins: the estrogen receptor beta (ESR2), estrogen receptor (ESR1), cytochrome P450 1B1 (CYP1B1), glycine N-methyltransferase (GNMT), and aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR). Binding to the GNMT or AHR proteins induces the expression of cytochrome P450 enzymes, particularly CYP1B1, CYP1A2, and CYP1A1. These enzymes metabolize phenanthrene into toxic intermediates, such as phenols, quinones, dihydrodiols, and epoxide intermediates. These reactive metabolites covalently bind to other cellular macromolecules and DNA, which initiates carcinogenesis and mutagenesis.
Belongs to the class of organic compounds known as phenanthrenes and derivatives. These are polycyclic compounds containing a phenanthrene moiety, which is a tricyclic aromatic compound with three non-linearly fused benzene.
poison (PMC6839706 )?A chemical substance, naturally occurring or synthetic, that is harmful to an organism exposed to it in sufficient amounts
carcinogenic agent (PMC7364716 , PMC11840630 )?A role played by a chemical compound which is known to induce a process of carcinogenesis by corrupting normal cellular pathways, leading to the acquistion of tumoral capabilities.
environmental contaminant ?A chemical substance, natural or synthetic, that when present in sufficient concentrations is harmful to organisms and the environment.
The ability of PAH's to bind to blood proteins such as albumin allows them to be transported throughout the body. Many PAH's induce the expression of cytochrome P450 enzymes, especially CYP1A1, CYP1A2, and CYP1B1, by binding to the aryl hydrocarbon receptor or glycine N-methyltransferase protein. These enzymes metabolize PAH's into their toxic intermediates. The reactive metabolites of PAHs (epoxide intermediates, dihydrodiols, phenols, quinones, and their various combinations) covalently bind to DNA and other cellular macromolecules, initiating mutagenesis and carcinogenesis. (4, 5, 2, 3)
3, not classifiable as to its carcinogenicity to humans. (6)
Minimum Risk Level
Not Available
Symptoms
Acute exposure to PAHs causes irritation and inflammation of the skin and lung tissue. (1)
Treatment
There is no known antidote for PAHs. Exposure is usually handled with symptomatic treatment. (4)
Health Effects
Health Effect
Relationship
Direction
Description
Reference
cancer
Associated With?
Not Available
Cancer is a group of diseases involving abnormal cell growth with the potential to invade or spread to other parts of the body. Possible signs and symptoms include a lump, abnormal bleeding, prolonged cough, unexplained weight loss, and a change in bowel movements. There are over 100 types of cancers affect humans. The risk of developing certain cancers can be reduced by not smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, not drinking too much alcohol, eating plenty of vegetables, fruits and whole grains, vaccination against certain infectious diseases, not eating too much processed and red meat and avoiding too much sunlight exposure. Cancer is often treated with some combination of radiation therapy, surgery, chemotherapy and targeted therapy. The majority of cancers, some 90–95% of cases, are due to genetic mutations from environmental and lifestyle factors. The remaining 5–10% are due to inherited genetics.
A bronchial disease that is characterized by chronic inflammation and narrowing of the airways, which is caused by a combination of environmental and genetic factors. The disease has symptom recurring periods of wheezing (a whistling sound while breathing), has symptom chest tightness, has symptom shortness of breath, has symptom mucus production and has symptom coughing. The symptoms appear due to a variety of triggers such as allergens, irritants, respiratory infections, weather changes, exercise, stress, reflux disease, medications, foods and emotional anxiety. (DO)
A glucose metabolism disease characterized by chronic hyperglycaemia with disturbances of carbohydrate, fat and protein metabolism resulting from defects in insulin secretion, insulin action, or both. (DO)
An autosomal recessive (Gene PAH) amino acid metabolic disorder that is characterized by a mutation in the gene for the hepatic enzyme phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH), rendering it nonfunctional. (DO)
An autosomal recessive (Gene PAH) amino acid metabolic disorder that is characterized by a mutation in the gene for the hepatic enzyme phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH), rendering it nonfunctional. (DO)
Soil?Soil serves as a critical medium for plant growth and sustains various ecological functions; however, it can become a reservoir for synthetic chemical contamination.
Indoor dust?Indoor dust is a complex mixture of particles that accumulates in indoor environments, consisting of materials such as skin flakes, hair, textile fibers, and particles from outdoor sources.
Indoor air?Indoor air can be a significant reservoir for synthetic chemical contaminants, which often originate from various sources within enclosed environments.
Marine sediment?Marine sediment can serve as a significant reservoir for synthetic chemical contaminants, which may originate from various anthropogenic activities.
River sediment?River sediment can serve as a significant reservoir for synthetic chemical contaminants, which may originate from various anthropogenic activities.
Groundwater?Groundwater serves as a vital resource for drinking water and agricultural irrigation but is increasingly susceptible to contamination from synthetic chemicals.
Road runoff?Road runoff refers to the water that flows over surfaces such as roads and parking lots during rain events or snowmelt, collecting pollutants along the way.
Road dust?Road dust is a complex mixture of particulate matter that accumulates on roadways and can become a significant source of synthetic chemical contamination.
Stormwater runoff?Stormwater runoff refers to the flow of rainwater or melted snow that does not soak into the ground and instead collects pollutants as it travels over impervious surfaces such as roads and parking lots.
Drinking water?Drinking water can be a medium for synthetic chemical contamination, often originating from various industrial processes and agricultural practices.
Ballast water?Ballast water, taken on by ships to maintain stability and balance, often contains a diverse array of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and plankton.
Bilge water?Bilge water is a byproduct generated from the accumulation of water in the lowest part of a ship's hull, which may include a mixture of seawater, oil, fuel residues, and various contaminants.
Industrial wastewater?Industrial wastewater is a byproduct generated during various manufacturing and processing activities, which often contains a complex mixture of organic and inorganic synthetic chemicals.
Effluent?Effluent refers to liquid waste or sewage that is discharged into the environment, typically resulting from industrial processes, municipal wastewater treatment, or agricultural runoff.
Food contact materials?Food contact materials refer to substances and products that are intended to come into contact with food during processing, packaging, or preparation.
Sunshades Awnings Or Outside Screens?Sunshades, awnings, and outside screens are often constructed using synthetic materials such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyester, or acrylic fabrics.
Sunshades Awnings Or Outside Screens?Sunshades, awnings, and outside screens are commonly used in construction to enhance energy efficiency and provide shade.
Antennas?Antennas, commonly used in communication technologies, can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination through the materials and coatings used in their construction.
Conductors Or Conductive Bodies Characterised By The Conductive Materials?Conductors, or conductive bodies, are materials that allow the flow of electrical current, typically made from metals such as copper, aluminum, or silver.
Discharge Lamps?Discharge lamps, including fluorescent and high-intensity discharge (HID) lamps, are commonly used for lighting applications due to their energy efficiency and brightness.
Electric Switches?Electric switches, integral components in numerous devices, can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination due to the materials and manufacturing processes involved in their production.
Electrically Stimulated Smoking Devices?Electrically stimulated smoking devices, commonly known as e-cigarettes or vape pens, utilize electrical components to heat a liquid solution, often containing nicotine, flavorings, and other additives, to produce an aerosol for inhalation.
Electrodes?Electrodes, used in various electrical and electronic applications, can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination due to the materials from which they are constructed and the processes involved in their manufacturing.
Emergency Protective Devices?Emergency protective devices, such as circuit breakers and surge protectors, are essential components in electrical systems designed to prevent damage from overcurrent and surges.
Fixed Capacitors And Their Manufacture?Fixed capacitors are passive electronic components used to store and release electrical energy, playing a critical role in various circuits.
Gas Filled Discharge Tubes With Solid Cathode?Gas Filled Discharge Tubes with Solid Cathodes are electrical components that facilitate the flow of current by ionizing gas within a sealed tube.
Hybrid Capacitors?Hybrid capacitors are energy storage devices that combine the properties of electrolytic and supercapacitors, utilizing a combination of electrochemical principles to achieve higher energy density and power density.
Line Transmission Systems?Line Transmission Systems, commonly used for the distribution of electrical energy, can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination through the insulation materials and coatings utilized in their construction.
Still Video Cameras?Still video cameras, which capture images in digital format, can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination due to the materials and components used in their production and operation.
Superconducting Magnets And Superconducting Coils?Superconducting magnets and coils are utilized in various applications that require strong magnetic fields, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and particle accelerators.
Superconductive Or Hyperconductive Conductors Cables Or Transmission Lines?Superconductive or hyperconductive conductors, including cables and transmission lines, are materials that exhibit zero electrical resistance under specific conditions, typically at low temperatures.
Television Systems?Television systems can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination due to the various materials and components used in their manufacture and operation.
Thin Magnetic Films?Thin magnetic films are layers of magnetic material ranging from a few nanometers to several micrometers in thickness, commonly used in applications such as magnetic sensors, data storage devices, and electronic components.
Food Preservation?Food preservation often involves the use of synthetic chemicals, such as preservatives, flavor enhancers, and color additives, to extend shelf life and enhance the sensory qualities of food products.
Preparation Of Malt?Malt preparation involves the germination and drying of cereal grains, primarily barley, to produce malt for brewing and food products.
Bleaching Agents?Bleaching agents are chemical substances used to whiten or lighten materials, often employed in various cleaning products for their stain removal and disinfecting properties.
Non Electric Simulated Smoking Devices?Non-electric simulated smoking devices, often designed to mimic the experience of smoking without combustion, can be sources of synthetic chemical contamination due to the materials and chemicals used in their construction and operation.
Perfumes Within Detergents And Soaps?Perfumes within detergents and soaps are synthetic fragrance compounds added to enhance the sensory experience of cleaning products.
Soap Detergents?Soap detergents are synthetic surfactants designed to enhance the cleaning efficacy of water by reducing surface tension, allowing for better interaction with dirt and grease.
Soap Dispensers?Soap dispensers, commonly used for dispensing liquid soaps and sanitizers, can become a source of synthetic chemical contamination due to the materials used in their construction and the products they dispense.
Tobacco Pipes?Tobacco pipes, often made from materials such as plastic, wood, or metal, can serve as sources of synthetic chemical contamination due to the residues left by tobacco products.
Tobacco Smoke Filters?Tobacco smoke filters are designed to reduce the inhalation of harmful substances in cigarette smoke, including tar and other particulate matter.
Manufacture Of Iron Or Steel?The manufacture of iron or steel involves various processes, including smelting, refining, and alloying, which can result in the release of synthetic chemicals and contaminants.
Manufacture Preparation Of Tobacco Products?The manufacture and preparation of tobacco products involve various processes that can result in the introduction of synthetic chemicals into the environment.
Anchoring Equipment?Anchoring equipment, commonly used in marine applications, can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination due to the materials and coatings utilized in their manufacturing.
Marine Propulsion Or Steering?Marine propulsion and steering systems often rely on various synthetic chemicals, including lubricants, fuels, and hydraulic fluids.
Aftersun Products?Aftersun products are designed to soothe and hydrate the skin after sun exposure, often containing various synthetic chemicals such as emollients, preservatives, and fragrances.
Anti Perspirants Or Body Deoderants?Antiperspirants and body deodorants commonly contain synthetic chemicals such as aluminum compounds, parabens, and synthetic fragrances.
Body Washing Or Cleaning Implements?Body washing or cleaning implements, such as synthetic sponges, loofahs, and washcloths, can be sources of synthetic chemical contamination due to the materials used in their production.
Depilatories?Depilatories are products designed to remove unwanted hair through the application of synthetic chemicals that break down the protein structure of hair, facilitating its removal.
Essential Oils Or Perfumes?Essential oils and perfumes are complex mixtures of volatile compounds derived from natural or synthetic sources, commonly used for their aromatic properties.
Eye Makeup Products?Eye makeup products, including mascaras, eyeliners, and eyeshadows, often contain a variety of synthetic chemicals such as pigments, preservatives, and film-forming agents.
Lip Care Products?Lip care products, including lipsticks, balms, and glosses, often contain a variety of synthetic chemicals such as parabens, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances.
Lip Makeup Products?Lip makeup products, such as lipsticks, lip glosses, and lip liners, often contain a variety of synthetic chemicals, including pigments, preservatives, and emollients.
Toys?Toys, particularly those made from synthetic materials such as plastics, can be a source of chemical contamination due to the presence of various additives and compounds used in their production.
Anthraquinone Dyes?Anthraquinone dyes are a class of synthetic organic compounds characterized by their vibrant colors and stability, making them widely used in various applications, particularly in coloring textiles and leather.
Azo Dyes?Azo dyes are synthetic organic compounds characterized by the presence of one or more azo groups (-N=N-), which are widely used for coloring textiles, leather, and furnishings.
Footwear?Footwear production often involves the use of various synthetic chemicals, such as adhesives, dyes, and treatments, which can contribute to environmental contamination.
Ropes?Ropes manufactured from synthetic fibers, such as polypropylene, nylon, and polyester, are widely used in various applications, including marine, construction, and outdoor activities.
Surface Finishing Of Leather?Surface finishing of leather often involves the use of various synthetic chemicals, including dyes, resins, and finishing agents.
Transfer Printing?Transfer printing is a process used to apply designs and patterns onto various substrates, commonly utilizing synthetic dyes and inks that can contain hazardous chemicals.
Yarns Or Threads?Yarns or threads used in textiles can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination due to the production processes and treatments they undergo.
Gaseous Fire Fighting?Gaseous fire fighting systems utilize synthetic chemicals, such as halocarbons and inert gases, to suppress fires through chemical and physical processes.
Solid Fire Fighting Substances?Solid fire fighting substances, such as certain types of dry chemical powders, are used in fire suppression applications to extinguish flames and prevent fire spread.
Airplanes And Helicopters?Airplanes and helicopters are significant sources of synthetic chemical contamination primarily through the use of aviation fuels, lubricants, and de-icing agents.
Nitrogenous Fertilisers?Nitrogenous fertilizers are synthetic chemical compounds primarily used to enhance plant growth by supplying essential nitrogen, a crucial nutrient for photosynthesis and protein synthesis.
Cements?Cements are a composite material primarily used as a binding agent in construction applications, formed by the calcination of limestone and clay minerals at high temperatures.
Clay Wares?Clay wares are ceramic products made from natural clay, often utilized in various construction applications such as tiles, bricks, and sanitary ware.
Glass Coatings?Glass coatings are synthetic chemical formulations applied to glass surfaces to enhance properties such as durability, UV resistance, and aesthetic appeal.
Silica Free Oxide Glass?Silica Free Oxide Glass is a type of glass that is produced using alternative materials to traditional silica-based formulations.
Silica Glass?Silica glass, primarily composed of silicon dioxide (SiO2), is widely used in various applications, including windows, glass facades, and insulation materials.
Nanotechnology?Nanotechnology involves the manipulation of materials at the molecular or atomic level, typically within the range of 1 to 100 nanometers.
Blackboards?Blackboards, traditionally made from slate or coated wood, can also be produced using synthetic materials that may contain various chemicals.
Combination Pens?Combination pens, which typically contain both ink and additional functionalities such as highlighters or stylus tips, may contribute to synthetic chemical contamination primarily through their ink formulations and plastic components.
Pens?Pens, commonly utilized for writing and marking, can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination primarily due to the materials used in their manufacturing.
Coating Compositions?Coating compositions, which include paints, sealants, and varnishes, are formulated with a variety of synthetic chemicals such as solvents, resins, pigments, and additives.
Chemical Igniters?Chemical igniters are substances or devices designed to initiate combustion in various applications, often found in products like lighters, candles, and certain household cleaning agents.
Leather Tanning?Leather tanning is a process that transforms raw animal hides into durable leather through the application of various chemicals, including chromium salts, aldehydes, and vegetable tannins.
Sludge Treatment?Sludge treatment involves the processing of waste materials generated from wastewater treatment plants, which often contain a variety of organic and inorganic substances.
Water, Wastewater, & Sewage Treatment?Water, wastewater, and sewage treatment processes are critical for managing and mitigating pollutants in water systems.
Many PAH's induce the expression of cytochrome P450 enzymes, especially CYP1A1, CYP1A2, and CYP1B1, by binding to the aryl hydrocarbon receptor or glycine N-methyltransferase protein. These enzymes metabolize PAH's into their toxic intermediates. The reactive metabolites of PAHs (epoxide intermediates, dihydrodiols, phenols, quinones, and their various combinations) covalently bind to DNA and other cellular macromolecules, initiating mutagenesis and carcinogenesis. (L10, L23, A27, A32)
Many PAH's induce the expression of cytochrome P450 enzymes, especially CYP1A1, CYP1A2, and CYP1B1, by binding to the aryl hydrocarbon receptor or glycine N-methyltransferase protein. These enzymes metabolize PAH's into their toxic intermediates. The reactive metabolites of PAHs (epoxide intermediates, dihydrodiols, phenols, quinones, and their various combinations) covalently bind to DNA and other cellular macromolecules, initiating mutagenesis and carcinogenesis. (L10, L23, A27, A32)
Kurt Handrick, Georg Kolling, Fritz Mensch, “Anthracene production from phenanthrene.” U.S. Patent US4384152, issued July, 1953.
MSDS
Not Available
General References
Santodonato J, Howard P, Basu D: Health and ecological assessment of polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons. J Environ Pathol Toxicol. 1981 Sep;5(1):1-364. [PubMed: 7310260]
Uno S, Dragin N, Miller ML, Dalton TP, Gonzalez FJ, Nebert DW: Basal and inducible CYP1 mRNA quantitation and protein localization throughout the mouse gastrointestinal tract. Free Radic Biol Med. 2008 Feb 15;44(4):570-83. Epub 2007 Nov 12. [PubMed: 17997381]
Padros J, Pelletier E: In vivo formation of (+)-anti-benzo[a]pyrene diol-epoxide-plasma albumin adducts in fish. Mar Environ Res. 2000 Jul-Dec;50(1-5):347-51. [PubMed: 11460716]
ATSDR - Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (1995). Toxicological profile for PAHs. U.S. Public Health Service in collaboration with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). - http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxprofiles/tp69.html
International Agency for Research on Cancer (2014). IARC Monographs on the Evaluation of Carcinogenic Risks to Humans. - http://monographs.iarc.fr/index.php
![Amine oxidase [flavin-containing] A structure](https://cdn.rcsb.org/images/structures/2bxr_assembly-1.jpeg)
