Cytochrome P450

Definition

Cytochrome P450 is a group of enzymes found in the body that help metabolize various substances including drugs and hormones.

Scientific / Technical Definition

Cytochrome P450 enzymes are a superfamily of heme-thiolate monooxygenases that play a crucial role in the oxidation of organic substances. They are involved in the metabolic processing of a variety of compounds and are found in liver cells and other tissues.

Benefits

• Assists in the metabolism of medications, enhancing their therapeutic effects.
• Plays a crucial role in the breakdown of toxins and metabolic waste.
• Contributes to the synthesis of cholesterol, steroids, and other lipids essential for health.

Examples

• While not sourced directly from food, the activity of Cytochrome P450 can be influenced by various dietary compounds found in substances like grapefruit, which can inhibit these enzymes, and cruciferous vegetables, which can enhance enzyme activity.

Additional Information

• Importance: Cytochrome P450 enzymes are important for drug metabolism and the detoxification of naturally occurring and synthetic substances within the body.

Related Terms

• Drug Metabolism
• Enzymes
• Detoxification
• Metabolic Pathways

References

• The Role of Cytochrome P450 Enzymes in Drug Metabolism and Implications for Adverse Effects
• Human Cytochrome P450 Enzymes: A Review of Partial and Whole Proteome Expression