Conversion of benezene to toluene by methyl donors in man.

The level of benzene in blood can be efficiently reduced by the concurrent administration of two groups of organic compounds: (1) methyl donors, such as choline, betaine and methionine; (2) SH-amino-acids such as cysteine and methionine. Methionine belongs to both categories of anti-benzene compounds in man. The appearance of toluene was demonstrated after the ingestion of choline and betaine followed by the ingestion of a unique dose of pure benzene (free from toluene).