Abstract
This chapter reveals that N-Nitroso compounds are important environmental carcinogens. They are chemically relatively simple substances that are classified into two groups according to their chemical structure, reactivity and effects: N-nitrosamines and N-nitrosamides. Nitrosamines originate from the nitrosation of amine precursors by nitrosating agents like nitrite or nitric oxides. In acidic aqueous solutions, the active nitrosating agent is nitrous acid. The nitrosation of primary amines leads to unstable alkylating agents that react with compounds of the reaction mixture to produce a variety of products, especially alcohols. The two main sources of human exposure are exogenous and endogenous exposure to N-nitroso compounds. Nitrite can be formed in the gastric system by the reduction of nitrate, which is found in considerable amounts in food.
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