The specific cytochrome P450 enzymes involved in quinoline metabolism in human and rat liver microsomes were determined using cDNA-expressed cytochrome P450s, correlations with specific cytochrome P450-linked monooxygenase activities in human liver microsomes and inhibition by specific inhibitors and antibodies.

Quinoline is a heterocyclic aromatic organic compound with the chemical formula C 9 H 7 N. It is a colorless hygroscopic liquid with a strong odor. Aged samples, especially if exposed to light, become yellow and later brown. Quinoline is only slightly soluble in cold water but dissolves readily in hot water and most organic solvents. [4]

The ethyl acetate extractable metabolites of quinoline and isoquinoline were analyzed directly by high pressure liquid chromatography and, after silylation, by capillary gas chromatography. The major metabolite of quinoline was 5,6-dihydroxy-5,6-dihydroquinoline.

Mechanistic insights into the role of Lewis acid (silver triflate) versus Bronsted acid (triflic acid) catalysis are revealed and illustrative aspects of the mechanism of the quinoline synthesis. 4-Arylquinoline-2-carboxylate derivatives show antiprotozoal activity against the pathogenic parasite T. gondii.

In the process of microbial metabolism, quinoline is oxidized by cytochrome P450 to generate highly active aromatic oxides that are easy to bind to DNA, RNA, and proteins. These substances have mutagenic, carcinogenic, and teratogenic risks on microorganisms, which directly limit the biodegradation of quinoline.