Detox

Question 1

Phase I – Modification (Bioactivation

Answer 1

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* Location: Liver (mainly), also brain and GI tract.
* Enzymes: Cytochrome P450 family (CYP450s).
* Function: Adds or exposes functional groups (e.g. -OH, -NH₂) on toxins.
* Result: Toxins may become more reactive (sometimes more toxic).
* Cofactors Needed: B vitamins (especially B2, B3, B6), magnesium.

Question 2

Phase II – Conjugation

Answer 2

• Goal: Make Phase I metabolites water-soluble for excretion.
• Key Pathways:
  
  • Glutathione conjugation (GST enzymes; needs GSH)
  • Methylation (requires SAMe, B12, folate)
  • Sulfation (needs sulfur-containing amino acids like cysteine)
  • Glucuronidation (uses UDP-glucuronic acid)
  • Acetylation (requires acetyl-CoA)
• Critical Nutrients: NAC, glycine, taurine, B vitamins, selenium.

Question 3

Phase III – Elimination

Answer 3

• Routes:
  
  • Bile/feces (fat-soluble toxins)
  • Urine (water-soluble toxins)
  • Sweat & breath (minor routes)
• Key Players: Transporter proteins (e.g., MDR1, MRP2).
• Supportive Nutrients: Hydration, fiber, magnesium, probiotics (to aid gut motility and excretion)

Question 4

Glutathione (GSH) – Master Detox Molecule

Answer 4

• Made from: Glutamate, cysteine, glycine.
• Functions:
  
  • Neutralizes reactive oxygen species (ROS)
  • Conjugates with toxins for safe removal
• Boosted by: NAC, whey protein, cruciferous vegetables, alpha-lipoic acid, selenium.

Question 5

Genetic Factors in Detoxification

Answer 5

• Relevant SNPs:
  
  • GSTM1, GSTT1, GSTP1 (glutathione enzymes)
  • NAT2, COMT (methylation, neurotransmitter metabolism)
  • SOD2, CAT, GPX1 (antioxidant defense)
• Implication: Variants can slow detox pathways, increasing susceptibility to toxin buildup and neurodegeneration.