Carcinogen-derived biomarkers and lung cancer

Carcinogen-derived biomarkers are substances such as metabolites or macromolecular adducts that are derived from specific identifiable carcinogens and can be quantified in human tissues or body fluids. With respect to lung cancer, the most important carcinogen-derived biomarkers presently being studied are those derived from the lung carcinogens in tobacco smoke-4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone and polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons. Some examples of these biomarkers and their application are discussed.