Synthesis of catechol estrone adenine adduct, 4-OH-E1-1-N3Ade, from estrone (E1). E1 is oxidized by IBX to form two catechol quinones: CE1-2,3-Q and CE1-3,4-Q at 2,3- and 3,4-positions, respectively. Addition of Ade results in major DNA adduct, 4-OH-E1-1-N3Ade, formed between CE1-3,4-Q and Ade. Stable isotope-labeled adducts: 4-OH-E1-(8-13C)1-N3Ade and 4-OH-E1-1-N3(U-15N)Ade are synthesized according to the same scheme.