Introduction to Biochemistry and Metabolism, 1/e

CHAPTER 12

DETOXICATION MECHANISM

Concept outline

• Introduction
• Oxidation
• Reduction
• Hydrolysis
• Conjugation
• Detoxification of Drugs
• Role of Cytochrome p450

INTRODUCTION

The term detoxication or detoxification refers to the series of biochemical reactions occurring in the body to convert the foreign compounds to non-toxic or less toxic and more easily executable forms.

Examples: pollutants and pesticides.

TOXIC SUBSTANCES

Toxic substances may include the following:

1. Products which are formed in the intestines due to normal metabolic reactions.

   Examples

   1. Foreign organic compounds which are not ordinarily ingested or taken once in a way.
   2. Drugs used for therapeutic purposes and chemicals used for therapeutic purposes.
2. Putrefaction: Products produced ...