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Bot GPT 3.5 Biotransformation is the process by which the body metabolizes and transforms a substance, typically a drug or toxin, in order to make it easier to eliminate from the body. This process involves a series of chemical reactions that usually occur in the liver.
Biotransformation is often divided into two phases: Phase I and Phase II.
Phase I reactions involve the introduction of a functional group (such as hydroxyl, amino, or thiol) into the molecule, making it more reactive and easier to metabolize. This phase typically involves enzymes such as cytochrome P450, which are responsible for oxidizing, reducing, or hydrolyzing the molecule.
Phase II reactions involve the conjugation of the molecule with another substrate, such as glucuronic acid, sulfate, or glutathione, to make it more water-soluble and easier to excrete in the urine or bile. This phase is responsible for the inactivation and detoxification of the molecule.
Overall, biotransformation is a crucial process in the body's ability to eliminate foreign substances and maintain homeostasis. The two phases work together to ensure that potentially toxic substances are transformed into more easily excretable forms, thus protecting the body from harm.