Elevation of serum Phase II enzymes by anticarcinogenic enzyme inducers: markers for a chemoprotected state?

Inducers of Phase II enzymes, already consumed by humans as food additives, medicines or as constituents of vegetables, can prevent experimental carcinogenesis. Since protection is neither carcinogen- nor organ-specific, clinical trials are already underway to establish the efficacy of 'anticarcinogenic enzyme inducers' (i.e. oltipraz). However, efficient and cost-effective assays to establish the dose wherein a putative anticarcinogen can raise...