Review on proteomic analyses of benzo[a]pyrene toxicity

Benzo[a]pyrene ( B a P ), a five‐ring polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon, is a well‐recognized environmental pollutant. Coal‐processing waste products, petroleum sludge, asphalt, creosote, and tobacco smoke, all contain high levels of B a P . Exposure to B a P elicits many adverse biological effects, including tumor formation, immunosuppression, teratogenicity, and hormonal effects. In addition to the genetic damage caused by B a P exposure, several studies have indicated the disruption of protein–protein signaling pathways. However, contrary to the large number of studies on B a P ‐induced DNA damage, only few data have been gathered on its effects at the protein level. This review highlights all proteomic studies to date used for assessing the toxicity of B a P and its metabolites in various organ systems. It will also give an overview on the role proteomics may play to elucidate the mechanisms underlying B a P toxicity.