Cytochrome P450 aromatic O-demethylase

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PDB 5NCB

Cytochrome P450 aromatic O-demethylase is an enzyme that belongs to the cytochrome P450 superfamily. This enzyme is involved in the metabolism of various aromatic compounds by catalyzing the O-demethylation process, which is the removal of a methyl group from an oxygen atom in an aromatic molecule.

Function

Cytochrome P450 aromatic O-demethylase plays a crucial role in the biotransformation of xenobiotics and endogenous compounds. The enzyme's primary function is to facilitate the oxidation of aromatic compounds, making them more hydrophilic and thus easier to excrete from the body. This process is essential for the detoxification of potentially harmful substances.

Mechanism

The enzyme operates through a heme-containing active site, where the iron atom cycles between different oxidation states to facilitate the transfer of electrons and the activation of molecular oxygen. The activated oxygen then interacts with the substrate, leading to the removal of the methyl group.

Substrates

Cytochrome P450 aromatic O-demethylase acts on a variety of substrates, including phenolic compounds, lignin-derived compounds, and certain pharmaceuticals. The enzyme's ability to process a wide range of substrates makes it a key player in drug metabolism and environmental detoxification.

Clinical Significance

Alterations in the activity of cytochrome P450 aromatic O-demethylase can have significant implications for drug efficacy and toxicity. Variations in enzyme activity due to genetic polymorphisms or drug interactions can lead to differences in how individuals metabolize certain medications, affecting their therapeutic outcomes and risk of adverse effects.

Related Enzymes

Cytochrome P450 aromatic O-demethylase is part of a larger family of cytochrome P450 enzymes, each with specific substrate preferences and functions. Other related enzymes include cytochrome P450 oxidoreductase, cytochrome P450 reductase, and various other isoforms of cytochrome P450.

Research and Applications

Research on cytochrome P450 aromatic O-demethylase has implications for pharmacology, toxicology, and biotechnology. Understanding the enzyme's structure and function can aid in the development of new drugs and the improvement of existing therapies. Additionally, the enzyme's role in environmental detoxification makes it a target for bioremediation efforts.

See Also

• Cytochrome P450
• Drug metabolism
• Enzyme
• Heme
• Oxidation
• Xenobiotic