Toxicological Research
- Volume 17
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- Pages.139-144
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- 2001
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- 1976-8257(pISSN)
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- 2234-2753(eISSN)
Metabolism of Safrole, a Betel Quid Component, and its Role in the Development of Oral Cancer in Taiwan
- Liu, Tsung-Yun (Department of Medical Research, Veterans General Hospital-Taipei, Institute of Pharmacology, National Yang-Ming University) ;
- Chen, Chiu-Lan (Chia-Nan University of Pharmacy and Science, Tai-Nan Hsien) ;
- Chung, Yu-Ting (Institute of Pharmacology, National Yang-Ming University) ;
- Chi, Chin-Wen (Department of Medical Research, Veterans General Hospital-Taipei, Institute of Pharmacology, National Yang-Ming University)
- Published : 2001.07.01
Abstract
Chewing betel quid is associated with an increased risk of oral cancer. The betel quid chewed in Taiwan includes the inflorescence of Piper betle, which contains high concentrations of safrole (15 mg/fresh weight). Piper betle leaf is also used in betel quid; however, the concentration of safrole in betel leaf has not been documented. Chewing betel quid may contribute to safrole exposure in man (420 mm in saliva). Using