Hepatic detoxification

Hepatic detoxification describes the collective metabolic processes in the liver by which endogenous and exogenous substances—including drugs, toxins, metabolic waste, and hormones—are transformed for safe elimination from the body. This process primarily involves a series of enzymatic reactions categorized as Phase I (mainly oxidation by cytochrome P450 enzymes) and Phase II (conjugation with molecules like glutathione or glucuronic acid), resulting in more water-soluble metabolites excretable in urine or bile. Although these mechanisms generally neutralize harmful compounds, they can sometimes generate active or even more toxic metabolites, contributing to idiosyncratic drug responses and toxicity. The activity of hepatic detoxification pathways varies substantially between individuals due to genetic differences in enzyme expression and function.

Other names

Hepatic metabolismLiver detoxificationLiver metabolismDetoxification pathways of liver