Anti-benzene compounds. Conversion of benzene to toluene by methyl donors, in man

The level of benzene in blood can be efficiently reduced, an its noxious effect neutralized, by the concurrent administration of either of two groups of organic compounds: 1) methyl donors such as choline and betaine; and, 2) cysteine-HCL. Methionine acts as a precursor of cysteine in the body as uell as a methyl donor like choline and betaine. The appearance of toluene in blood was demonstrated after the sequential ingestion of choline plus betaine, benzene. The results are discussed in relation to clinical application in workers chronically exposed to benzene.