Epoxide hydrolase 1 (EPHX1)

Epoxide hydrolase 1 (EPHX1) is a membrane-associated enzyme of the endoplasmic reticulum, widely expressed with highest levels in liver, adrenal gland, lung, and kidney[1][2]. It belongs to the α/β hydrolase fold family and catalyzes the hydrolysis of a broad range of arene and aliphatic epoxides to dihydrodiols, playing crucial roles in detoxification of environmental chemicals and some endogenous signaling molecules[1][2][5]. EPHX1 has dual roles, both protecting against toxic compounds and, through bioactivation, increasing genotoxic risk of certain carcinogens[2][1][5]. Genetic variants and dysregulation of EPHX1 are linked to a range of diseases including cancer risk, preeclampsia, and inherited metabolic disorders. Its variable activity influences drug efficacy and safety, particularly for drugs metabolized via epoxide intermediates such as phenytoin[2][4][5].

Other names

Microsomal epoxide hydrolaseMEHEPHXEPOXHYL1Epoxide hydrataseEpoxide hydrolase 1, microsomal (xenobiotic)

Hydrolysis of epoxide-containing xenobiotics and endogenous compounds to corresponding diols, enhancing solubility and excretion. Both detoxification (less reactive, less toxic metabolites) and bioactivation (sometimes increased genotoxicity)