[Distribution, formation, carcinogenic and mutagenic activities of nitro derivatives of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons].

Nitro-PAHs (nitro-substituted derivatives of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons) are a class of chemical compounds with high biologic activity. They have been detected in samples of air pollutants, diesel and gasoline engine exhausts, in airplane exhaust emissions, cigarette smoke condensate, emissions of coke ovens, wood-burning fireplaces, coal-fired plants, in food and tea. Concentrations of nitro-PAHs have been compared with those of PAHs present in air pollutant samples and emissions from different sources. Information on the environmental occurrence, formation, and decomposition of nitro-PAHs in the atmosphere is given. Biologic effects (carcinogenic and mutagenic) of pure nitro-PAHs and nitro-PAHs-containing complex mixtures are discussed.