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.
Hydroquinone belongs to the benzenediols, a subclass of phenols within the organic compounds. It is a solid at room temperature with a chemical formula of C6H6O2 and an average molecular weight of 110.11 g/mol. This exogenous compound is classified as a benzenoid and serves various biological and industrial roles. Biologically, it acts as a cofactor, a carcinogenic agent, an inhibitor (PMC8540663 , PMC10422372 ), and is a metabolite for both humans and Escherichia coli. Industrially, it is utilized as a stabilizing agent, a reducing agent (PMC11991570 ), an antioxidant (PMC11991570 ), a catalyst (PMC9821536 ), an inhibitor (PMC8540663 , PMC10422372 ), a dye, a fragrance (PMC11991570 ), a flavouring and nutrient (PMC11991570 ), and a monomer (PMC11991570 ). It is also used in the production of Polyethylene Terephthalate.
Hydroquinone is an environmental xenobiotic (PMC10001213 ) detected in tissues including the liver, kidney, bone marrow, skin, fibroblasts, and stratum corneum. It is found in 58 recorded sources across sectors such as healthcare and pharmaceuticals (dermatological preparations, medical devices), household cleaning and consumer products (bleaching agents, perfumes within detergents and soaps, cigar cigarettes), electrical and electronic equipment (batteries, capacitors, cell phones), food and food processing (food packaging, fermentation processes for beer), building and construction (roofs, floors), and textiles (synthetic textiles, carpets and rugs). Exposure routes include oral, cutaneous, topical, touch, and inhalation (PMC11313755 ). Regarding health effects, hydroquinone is used as a treatment for itching (PMC11307991 ). It interacts with 16 protein targets, acting as an activator, antagonist, inhibitor, or substrate for Carbonic anhydrase 1, 2, 3, and 12.
Belongs to the class of organic compounds known as hydroquinones. Hydroquinones are compounds containing a hydroquinone moiety, which consists of a benzene ring with a hydroxyl groups at positions 1 and 4.
poison (PMC9860039 )?A chemical substance, naturally occurring or synthetic, that is harmful to an organism exposed to it in sufficient amounts
carcinogenic agent (PMC11152453 )?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.
genotoxin (PMC2888624 , PMC2888624 )?A chemical substance that alters the genetic material of an organism,directly or indirectly
hepatotoxic agent (PMC13230110 )?A role played by a chemical compound exihibiting itself through the ability to induce damage to the liver in animals.
cofactor ?A chemical that is required by an enzyme for its intended chemical activity
EC 1.14.18.1 (tyrosinase) inhibitor (PMC6535878 , PMC12346983 )?Any EC 1.14.18.* (oxidoreductase acting on paired donors, miscellaneous compound as one donor, incorporating 1 atom of oxygen) inhibitor that interferes with the action of tyrosinase (monophenol monooxygenase), EC 1.14.18.1, an enzyme that catalyses the oxidation of phenols (such as tyrosine) and is widespread in plants and animals.
3, not classifiable as to its carcinogenicity to humans. (15)
Minimum Risk Level
Not Available
Symptoms
Not Available
Treatment
Not Available
Health Effects
Health Effect
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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 disorder characterized by a state of generalized weakness with a pronounced inability to summon sufficient energy to accomplish daily activities. (NCI CTCAE)
Groundwater?Groundwater serves as a vital resource for drinking water and agricultural irrigation but is increasingly susceptible to contamination from synthetic chemicals.
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.
Printed circuit boards?Printed circuit boards (PCBs) are essential components in the manufacturing of electronic devices, serving as the backbone for electrical connections and circuit pathways.
Semiconductors?Semiconductors are materials that possess electrical conductivity between that of conductors and insulators, making them essential for various electronic applications, including transistors, diodes, and integrated circuits.
Lubricants?Lubricants are synthetic or petroleum-derived substances used to reduce friction between surfaces in machinery and equipment, enhancing operational efficiency and longevity.
Food packaging?Food packaging often utilizes synthetic chemicals, such as plastics and coatings, to enhance durability, moisture resistance, and shelf life.
Hair dyes?Hair dyes often contain a range of synthetic chemicals, including aromatic amines, resorcinol, and formaldehyde, which can pose environmental contamination risks.
Brushes?Brushes used in personal care and cosmetics can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination due to the materials and coatings used in their manufacturing.
Medical devices?Medical devices often incorporate synthetic chemicals in their manufacturing processes, which can contribute to contamination in healthcare settings.
Dermatological preparations?Dermatological preparations encompass a wide range of topical products, including creams, ointments, gels, and lotions, designed for the treatment of skin conditions.
Carpets and Rugs?Carpets and rugs are commonly manufactured using synthetic fibers such as nylon, polyester, and polypropylene, which can be derived from petrochemical sources.
Synthetic textiles?Synthetic textiles are materials derived from man-made fibers, such as polyester, nylon, and acrylic, which are produced through chemical processes involving petrochemicals.
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.
Cell phones?Cell phones contain a variety of synthetic chemicals and materials, including plastics, metals, and glass, which can contribute to environmental contamination.
Capacitors?Capacitors are electronic components that store and release electrical energy, often using dielectric materials that can include synthetic chemicals.
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.
Floors?Floors in built environments can be a significant source of synthetic chemical contamination due to the materials and finishes used in their construction.
Stairs And Ramps?Stairs and ramps in construction are often treated with various synthetic chemicals to enhance durability, slip resistance, and weather resistance.
Tents Or Canopies?Tents and canopies used in various applications can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination primarily due to the materials from which they are made.
Adjustable Resistors?Adjustable resistors, commonly used in various electronic devices, can contribute to synthetic chemical contamination through the materials and substances used in their manufacturing and disposal.
Antennas?Antennas, commonly used in communication technologies, can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination through the materials and coatings used in their construction.
Communication Cables Or Conductors?Communication cables or conductors are essential components in the transmission of data and signals in various applications, including telecommunications and networking.
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.
Cores Yokes Or Armatures?Cores, yokes, or armatures are components commonly found in electrical devices, used to facilitate the magnetic and electrical functions within motors, transformers, and generators.
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.
Loudspeakers?Loudspeakers, as components in audio systems, can be sources of synthetic chemical contamination primarily due to the materials used in their construction.
Power Cables?Power cables are used to transmit electrical energy and are typically composed of conductive materials, insulation, and protective coatings.
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.
Preparation Of Vinegar?Vinegar is produced through the fermentation of ethanol by acetic acid bacteria, resulting in a solution that typically contains 4-8% acetic acid.
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.
Other Smoking Requisites?Other smoking requisites, including items such as lighters, matches, and rolling papers, can introduce synthetic chemical contamination through various components and additives.
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.
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.
Paper Making Machines?Paper making machines utilize various synthetic chemicals throughout the production process, including additives, coatings, and bleaching agents.
Life Buoys?Life buoys, commonly used in marine environments for safety and rescue operations, can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination due to the materials used in their production.
Marine Propulsion Or Steering?Marine propulsion and steering systems often rely on various synthetic chemicals, including lubricants, fuels, and hydraulic fluids.
Fertiliser Distributors?Fertiliser distributors play a critical role in the supply of synthetic fertilizers, which are widely used to enhance soil fertility and crop yield.
Nematocides?Nematocides are synthetic chemicals specifically designed to control nematodes, which are microscopic roundworms that can cause significant damage to crops and plants.
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.
Face Mask Cosmetics?Face mask cosmetics often contain a variety of synthetic chemicals, including preservatives, emulsifiers, and fragrances, which can contribute to chemical contamination.
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.
Manicure Pedicure?Manicure and pedicure procedures often involve the use of various synthetic chemicals, including solvents, nail polishes, and nail adhesives.
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.
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.
Buttons?Buttons, often made from synthetic materials such as polyester, nylon, or polycarbonate, can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination during their production, use, and disposal.
Embroidering And Tufting?Embroidering and tufting processes often involve the use of synthetic chemicals such as dyes, adhesives, and finishing agents.
Footwear?Footwear production often involves the use of various synthetic chemicals, such as adhesives, dyes, and treatments, which can contribute to environmental contamination.
Headwear?Headwear made from synthetic materials often incorporates chemicals used in the manufacturing and finishing processes, such as dyes, flame retardants, and water repellents.
Hook Or Eye Fasteners?Hook or eye fasteners are commonly used in various applications, including clothing and upholstery, to secure fabric and enhance functionality.
Multicolour Dyeing?Multicolour dyeing involves the application of multiple synthetic dyes to textiles and other materials to achieve vibrant, diverse color patterns.
Purses Luggage Hand Bags?Purses, luggage, and handbags are often manufactured using synthetic materials such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyurethane, and various types of nylon.
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 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.
Bookbinding?Bookbinding involves the use of various synthetic chemicals, including adhesives, inks, and coatings, which can contribute to environmental contamination.
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.
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.
Gaskell M, McLuckie KI, Farmer PB: Comparison of the repair of DNA damage induced by the benzene metabolites hydroquinone and p-benzoquinone: a role for hydroquinone in benzene genotoxicity. Carcinogenesis. 2005 Mar;26(3):673-80. Epub 2004 Dec 23. [PubMed: 15618234]
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