Molecular Classification
Enzyme, Cytochrome P450, Monooxygenase
Disease Roles
Alcoholic liver diseaseCancerHeart disease

Cytochrome P450 2E1 Overview

Cytochrome P450 2E1 (CYP2E1) is a member of the cytochrome P450 superfamily of enzymes involved in the metabolism of a wide range of compounds. It metabolizes small organic molecules, including ethanol, acetone, and toxic environmental chemicals. CYP2E1 plays a dual role in detoxification and bioactivation of procarcinogens. Its expression is induced by ethanol, diabetes, and starvation, leading to increased metabolic capacity and ROS production. Elevated CYP2E1 activity is implicated in liver diseases, cancer, and heart disease. There are significant inter-individual differences in hepatic CYP2E1 levels, influencing individual responses to drugs and susceptibility to toxic effects.

Mechanism of Action

N/A

Biological Functions

Xenobiotic metabolism
Ethanol metabolism
Fatty acid metabolism
Detoxification
Bioactivation
ROS generation

Disease Associations

Alcoholic liver disease
Cancer
Heart disease
Oxidative stress
Hepatotoxicity

Safety Considerations

  • Drug-drug interactions
  • Bioactivation of procarcinogens
  • ROS generation
  • Inter-individual variability in expression/activity

Interacting Drugs

Ethanol
Acetaminophen
Anesthetics