response to formaldehyde

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

Any process that results in a change in state or activity of a cell or an organism (in terms of movement, secretion, enzyme production, gene expression, etc.) as a result of a formaldehyde stimulus. [GO_REF:0000071, GOC:TermGenie, PMID:9149109]

Formaldehyde is a highly reactive molecule that can damage cellular components, including DNA, proteins, and lipids. This damage can lead to cell death or mutations, which can contribute to cancer. To protect against the toxic effects of formaldehyde, cells have evolved a complex network of defense mechanisms, including detoxification, repair, and apoptosis.

**Detoxification**

Formaldehyde is detoxified by the enzyme **formaldehyde dehydrogenase** (FDH), which converts it to formate, a less toxic compound. FDH is found in the cytoplasm and mitochondria of cells, and its expression is induced by exposure to formaldehyde.

**Repair**

Formaldehyde can damage DNA by cross-linking purine bases, leading to mutations. These mutations can be repaired by **DNA repair enzymes**, such as **base excision repair** (BER) and **nucleotide excision repair** (NER).

**Apoptosis**

If the damage caused by formaldehyde is too extensive, cells may undergo programmed cell death, or apoptosis, to prevent the spread of damaged cells. Apoptosis is triggered by various signaling pathways, including the **p53 pathway** and the **caspase cascade**.

**Other mechanisms**

In addition to these core mechanisms, cells may employ other strategies to cope with formaldehyde exposure. These include:

* **Induction of antioxidant enzymes:** Formaldehyde can generate reactive oxygen species (ROS), which can damage cells. Antioxidant enzymes, such as **glutathione peroxidase** and **catalase**, help to neutralize ROS and protect cells from oxidative stress.
* **Activation of transcription factors:** Formaldehyde can activate transcription factors, such as **NF-κB**, which control the expression of genes involved in inflammation and immune responses.
* **Changes in cell cycle:** Formaldehyde can disrupt the cell cycle, leading to cell cycle arrest or apoptosis.

The specific mechanisms involved in the response to formaldehyde vary depending on the cell type, the concentration of formaldehyde, and the duration of exposure. However, all cells have evolved complex mechanisms to protect themselves from the toxic effects of this ubiquitous molecule.'
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Proteins (1)

Compounds (19)