Cytochrome P450 Family Enzyme (CYP or P450)

Cytochrome P450 enzymes (often abbreviated as CYPs or P450s) are a large and diverse superfamily of heme-containing monooxygenases. They play a central role in the metabolism of endogenous compounds (such as steroids, fatty acids, and hormones) and exogenous substances (including drugs, toxins, and carcinogens). These enzymes are found across all domains of life except for some bacteria like *Escherichia coli*. CYPs primarily function as monooxygenases: they catalyze reactions where one atom of molecular oxygen is incorporated into an organic substrate while the other is reduced to water. Most drug metabolism occurs via phase I reactions catalyzed by CYPs—mainly oxidation—which increases compound hydrophilicity for easier excretion. CYP enzymes account for most oxidative drug biotransformations; thus they play a key role in pharmacokinetics—affecting drug efficacy/toxicity through genetic polymorphisms or drug-drug interactions. Some isoforms (e.g., CYP19A1/aromatase) serve as therapeutic targets; inhibitors/modulators can treat diseases such as hormone-dependent cancers or metabolic disorders.

Other names

Cytochrome P450CYPsP450s

Monooxygenase: catalyzes reactions where one atom of molecular oxygen is incorporated into an organic substrate while the other is reduced to water. Inhibition or modulation of specific isoforms.