The carcinogen benzo [a] pyrene (BP) is metabolized by monooxygenase enzymes to phenols, dihydrodiols, and diones. The major product, 3-hydroxy-BP, is measured in the fluorescence assay for aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase (AHH). In this assay, the BP phenols, which are readily oxidized to nonfluorescent diones, are not detected. Blocking the 6 position with various substituents prevents dione formation and stabilizes the phenolic ...