Glükuronidáció

Glükuronidáció is a biological process that occurs primarily in the liver, although it can also take place in other tissues such as the kidneys, intestines, and lungs. It is a crucial part of xenobiotic metabolism and endogenous compound detoxification. This process involves the conjugation of a molecule, typically a drug or a toxic substance, with glucuronic acid. Glucuronic acid is a derivative of glucose.

The enzyme responsible for catalyzing this reaction is UDP-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT). UGTs are a family of enzymes that are embedded in the membrane of the endoplasmic reticulum. They transfer glucuronic acid from a cofactor, uridine 5'-diphospho-glucuronic acid (UDPGA), to a wide range of substrates. These substrates often contain hydroxyl, carboxyl, amino, or sulfhydryl groups, which are modified by the addition of the glucuronide moiety.

The primary purpose of glükuronidáció is to increase the water solubility of lipophilic (fat-soluble) compounds. This increased solubility makes it easier for the body to excrete these substances, primarily through the urine or bile. By converting less polar molecules into more polar glucuronides, the body can efficiently eliminate them, preventing their accumulation and potential toxicity. This process is vital for the metabolism of many drugs, bilirubin, steroid hormones, and various toxins.