BPAQ

BPAQ stands for bisphenol A quinone, a reactive metabolite formed from the industrial chemical bisphenol A (BPA). It arises when BPA is oxidized, producing a quinone electrophile that can engage in covalent interactions with biological nucleophiles. BPAQ is studied as part of understanding the mechanisms by which BPA exposure could contribute to cellular stress and damage.

Chemically, BPAQ is highly reactive and readily forms adducts with nucleophiles such as thiol groups in glutathione and cysteine residues, as well as with DNA bases. These covalent modifications can alter protein function and potentially contribute to DNA damage or altered cellular signaling. In biological systems, BPAQ can be generated in vitro using liver microsomes or other oxidizing systems, and may be formed endogenously under oxidative conditions.

Detoxification pathways include conjugation with glutathione, leading to BPAQ-glutathione conjugates that can be detected in biological samples. The study of these conjugates and related adducts helps researchers assess exposure, metabolism, and potential risk associated with BPA, especially in the context of oxidative stress or inflammation. Analytical techniques such as liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry are commonly used to measure BPAQ and its metabolites in urine, blood, or tissue samples.

Overall, BPAQ is a focal point in toxicology discussions of BPA, providing a possible link between BPA metabolism and molecular events such as covalent modification of biomolecules. Research continues to clarify its relevance at environmental exposure levels and its contribution to BPA-associated health effects.