3-methylcholanthrene

3-methylcholanthrene is a highly carcinogenic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) used primarily in laboratory research to induce tumors and study chemical carcinogenesis[1][2][9]. It is an alkylated derivative of benz[a]anthracene with a pentacyclic ring structure and has similar properties to other PAHs used in experimental oncology. 3-methylcholanthrene is a potent aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) agonist, leading to altered gene expression and the induction of cytochrome P450 enzymes[2]. Its carcinogenic action results from the induction of DNA mutations and tumor initiation, and it is commonly used to induce fibrosarcomas and skin carcinomas in animal models[1][2][9]. There are no therapeutic or pharmaceutical uses in humans; its application is strictly experimental due to its toxicity and carcinogenicity. It is not developed or manufactured as a medicine, but as a chemical reagent for research.

Other names

methylcholanthrene20-methylcholanthrenebenz[j]aceanthrylene 1,2-dihydro-3-methylcholanthrene 3-methylcholanthrene3-methylcholanthrene-3-methyl3-methyl-1,2-dihydrocyclopenta[ij]tetraphenecholanthrene 20(3)-methylMC