Microsomal metabolism of N-nitrosodi-n-propylamine: formation of products resulting from α-and β-oxidation

We have identified propionaldehyde, n-propanol, isopropanol and N-nitroso-2-hydroxy-propylpropylamine following incubation of N-nitrosodi-n-propylamine with a microsomal fraction from rat liver. Based on the yields of the various products, we have shown that β-oxidation occurs at about 15% of the level of α-oxidation. β-as well as α-oxidation was shown to be carried out by the microsomal mixed function oxidase system. N-nitroso-2-hydroxy-propylpropylamine is further oxidized by the microsomal preparation to yield N-nitroso-2-oxopropylpropylamine.