3-Methoxybenz[a]anthracene is a carcinogenic compound used in studies allowing for research towards breast cancer. Intermediate in the synthesis of Benz[a]anthracen-3-ol (B120585) A derivative of the most potent carcinogenic hydrocarbon, 7,12-Dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (D464500), a highly potent carcinogen that is activated by microsomal enzymes to a diol epoxide metabolite that binds covalently to DNA in mammalian cells, leading ultimately to tumor induction. Benz[a]anthracen-3-ol is used in carcinogenesis studies relating to breast cancer.
