glucuronidacja

Glucuronidation is a phase II metabolic process in which glucuronic acid is conjugated to a substrate, typically a drug or other xenobiotic compound, to facilitate its excretion from the body. This process is catalyzed by the enzyme UDP-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT), which transfers a glucuronic acid moiety from UDP-glucuronic acid to the substrate. The resulting glucuronide conjugate is often more water-soluble than the original compound, making it easier to eliminate through urine or bile. Glucuronidation is a common detoxification pathway and plays a crucial role in the metabolism and elimination of many drugs, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), opioids, and certain anticancer agents. The efficiency of glucuronidation can be influenced by various factors, such as genetic polymorphisms in UGT enzymes, age, gender, and the presence of other drugs or diseases. In some cases, glucuronidation can also lead to the formation of reactive intermediates that may contribute to drug-induced toxicity.