Glükuronidatsiooni

Glükuronidatsiooni is a metabolic process that occurs primarily in the liver, where glucuronic acid is conjugated to various organic molecules. This conjugation typically renders the molecule more water-soluble, facilitating its excretion from the body. The process is a crucial part of drug metabolism and detoxification, enabling the body to eliminate both endogenous compounds and foreign substances.

The key enzyme responsible for glükuronidatsiooni is UDP-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT). This enzyme catalyzes the transfer of glucuronic acid from its activated precursor, uridine diphosphate glucuronic acid (UDPGA), to a substrate. Substrates for glükuronidatsiooni include a wide range of compounds, such as bilirubin, steroid hormones, neurotransmitters, and many pharmaceuticals. The hydroxyl, carboxyl, amino, and sulfhydryl groups are common sites for glucuronidation.

Once conjugated, the glucuronide metabolite is typically more polar and less pharmacologically active than the parent compound. This increased polarity enhances its solubility in aqueous environments, promoting its elimination via urine or bile. In some cases, glucuronidation can lead to the formation of reactive intermediates, but generally, it is considered a detoxification pathway. The rate of glükuronidatsiooni can be influenced by factors such as genetics, age, disease state, and the presence of other drugs. This metabolic pathway is essential for maintaining homeostasis and protecting the body from potentially harmful substances.