Cancer letters
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Tobacco-specific N-nitrosamines (TSNA) are the most abundant carcinogens identified in tobacco and its smoke. Reducing their levels in tobacco products and especially in cigarette smoke is, therefore, a primary goal towards minimizing the carcinogenic burden of the tobacco consumer. This study delineates the mechanisms of formation of 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone (NNK), the most powerful of the carcinogenic TSNA during cigarette smoking. ⋯ Thus, 63-74% of NNK in smoke is formed during smoking. NNK yield in the smoke was independent of nitrate content of the tobacco. These data serve to devise methods of reducing TSNA in smoke.