Metabolic detoxification pathway

The metabolic detoxification pathway is a multi-phase biochemical system primarily in the liver, but also in the intestines, kidneys, lungs, and brain, that processes and eliminates lipid-soluble toxins, xenobiotics, drugs, and excess endobiotics by converting them into water-soluble forms for excretion via urine or bile. It consists of phase I enzymes like cytochrome P450s (CYPs) that introduce reactive groups, phase II conjugation enzymes such as UDP-glucuronosyltransferases (UGTs), glutathione S-transferases (GSTs), and sulfotransferases (SULTs) that add solubilizing molecules, and phase III transporters like ABC proteins that export metabolites. Dysregulation, often due to genetic variants in genes like CYP1A2, GSTM1, or COMT, can lead to accumulation of harmful intermediates, increased oxidative stress, and heightened disease risk including cancer and hormonal disorders. Nutritional support from whole foods modulates these pathways via Nrf2 signaling, enhancing enzyme activity, though imbalances may exacerbate toxicity. While not a single therapeutic target like a receptor or enzyme, its components are studied for personalized interventions in detox-related conditions.

Other names

biotransformation systemdetoxification pathwayphase I/II/III detoxification