cellular detoxification of aldehyde

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

Any process carried out at the cellular level that reduces or removes the toxicity of an aldehyde. These may include transport of aldehydes away from sensitive areas and to compartments or complexes whose purpose is sequestration of the toxic substance. [GOC:vw, PMID:25656103]

Cellular detoxification of aldehydes is a crucial process for maintaining cellular homeostasis and protecting against aldehyde-induced toxicity. Aldehydes are highly reactive molecules that can arise from various metabolic pathways and environmental exposures. They can damage cellular components such as DNA, proteins, and lipids, leading to cellular dysfunction and disease. To combat these effects, cells have evolved intricate mechanisms to detoxify aldehydes.

The major detoxification pathway involves the conversion of aldehydes to less reactive compounds, primarily through the action of enzymes belonging to the aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) family. These enzymes catalyze the oxidation of aldehydes to their corresponding carboxylic acids, which are typically less toxic and more readily excreted from the body.

The specific ALDH isoforms involved in aldehyde detoxification vary depending on the type of aldehyde and the cell type. For instance, ALDH2 is crucial for detoxifying acetaldehyde, a toxic byproduct of alcohol metabolism. Other ALDH isoforms, such as ALDH1A1 and ALDH3A1, play roles in detoxifying other aldehydes, including those generated from lipid peroxidation and oxidative stress.

In addition to ALDHs, other enzymes can participate in aldehyde detoxification, such as glutathione S-transferases (GSTs). These enzymes catalyze the conjugation of aldehydes with glutathione, a tripeptide that acts as a cellular antioxidant. The resulting aldehyde-glutathione conjugates are more water-soluble and can be more easily excreted from the cell.

The detoxification of aldehydes is a dynamic process influenced by various factors, including the concentration of aldehydes, the expression levels of detoxifying enzymes, and the availability of cofactors, such as NAD+ and glutathione. When these processes become overwhelmed, for example, due to excessive alcohol consumption, aldehyde accumulation can occur, leading to cellular damage and disease.

In summary, cellular detoxification of aldehydes involves a multi-step process that relies on the coordinated action of various enzymes, primarily ALDHs and GSTs. These enzymes convert aldehydes to less toxic forms, preventing aldehyde-induced damage and maintaining cellular health. The efficiency of this detoxification process is crucial for protecting cells from the detrimental effects of aldehydes.'
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Proteins (4)

Compounds (53)