Alcohol dehydrogenase meaning

Alcohol dehydrogenase is an enzyme that helps break down alcohol in the body.


Alcohol dehydrogenase definitions

Word backwards lohocla esanegordyhed
Part of speech Alcohol dehydrogenase is a noun.
Syllabic division al-co-hol de-hy-dro-gen-ase
Plural The plural of alcohol dehydrogenase is alcohol dehydrogenases.
Total letters 20
Vogais (3) a,o,e
Consonants (9) l,c,h,d,y,r,g,n,s

Alcohol dehydrogenase is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in the metabolism of alcohol in the human body. It is responsible for catalyzing the conversion of alcohol into acetaldehyde, which is then further metabolized into acetate by another enzyme called aldehyde dehydrogenase.

Structure and Function

The structure of alcohol dehydrogenase consists of four zinc atoms and a zinc-bound hydroxide. This enzyme primarily functions in the liver, where it helps break down alcohol consumed by individuals. Additionally, alcohol dehydrogenase is also present in the stomach and the lining of the intestines, contributing to the overall metabolism of alcohol in the body.

Genetic Variants

There are several genetic variants of alcohol dehydrogenase that can impact an individual's ability to metabolize alcohol efficiently. For example, certain populations may have genetic variations that result in a more active form of the enzyme, leading to quicker alcohol metabolism. Conversely, other variations may result in a less active enzyme, causing individuals to experience alcohol flush reactions.

Role in Alcohol Tolerance

Alcohol dehydrogenase plays a significant role in determining an individual's tolerance to alcohol. Variations in the enzyme's activity can affect how quickly alcohol is broken down in the body, influencing how a person responds to alcohol consumption. Understanding the role of alcohol dehydrogenase can provide insights into alcohol tolerance levels among different populations.

Overall, alcohol dehydrogenase is a critical enzyme involved in the metabolism of alcohol in the human body. Its structure, function, and genetic variants contribute to how individuals process and respond to alcohol consumption.


Alcohol dehydrogenase Examples

  1. Alcohol dehydrogenase is an enzyme that helps metabolize ethanol in the liver.
  2. The activity of alcohol dehydrogenase can vary among individuals based on genetic factors.
  3. High levels of alcohol dehydrogenase may contribute to a lower tolerance for alcohol.
  4. Alcohol dehydrogenase inhibitors are being researched as potential treatments for alcohol dependence.
  5. Mutations in the gene encoding alcohol dehydrogenase can impact alcohol metabolism.
  6. Alcohol dehydrogenase plays a crucial role in the first step of alcohol breakdown in the body.
  7. Certain populations have a higher frequency of a variant of alcohol dehydrogenase that affects alcohol sensitivity.
  8. Alcohol dehydrogenase deficiency can lead to adverse reactions to alcohol consumption.
  9. The activity of alcohol dehydrogenase in the stomach is much lower compared to the liver.
  10. Alcohol dehydrogenase activity is influenced by factors such as age, sex, and overall health.


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  • Updated 22/04/2024 - 22:06:17