UDPglükuronüültransferaasideks

UDP-glucuronosyltransferases (UGTs) are a superfamily of enzymes primarily involved in the detoxification and elimination of various xenobiotics and endogenous compounds. They catalyze the transfer of glucuronic acid from uridine 5'-diphospho-glucuronic acid (UDPGA) to a substrate molecule. This process, known as glucuronidation, results in the formation of more water-soluble conjugates that are readily excreted from the body, mainly via urine and bile.

UGTs play a critical role in drug metabolism, influencing the efficacy and duration of action of many pharmaceuticals. They also metabolize endogenous substances such as bilirubin, steroid hormones, and thyroid hormones. Variations in UGT gene expression and activity can lead to significant differences in how individuals respond to drugs and their susceptibility to certain diseases.

The human UGT superfamily comprises several families, with UGT1A and UGT2B being the most extensively studied. These enzymes exhibit diverse substrate specificities, meaning different UGT isoforms can metabolize different classes of compounds. Research into UGTs is ongoing, focusing on understanding their complex regulation, identifying novel substrates, and exploring their therapeutic potential, for example, in developing personalized medicine approaches.