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ALDH2

Meaning

Aldehyde Dehydrogenase 2 (ALDH2) is a mitochondrial enzyme responsible for the second, crucial step in alcohol metabolism: the detoxification of acetaldehyde. This enzyme rapidly converts acetaldehyde, a highly toxic and carcinogenic compound, into harmless acetate. Genetic polymorphisms in the ALDH2 gene, particularly the inactive ALDH22 allele, significantly impair this clearance process. Impaired ALDH2 function leads to acetaldehyde accumulation, which is associated with the facial flushing response and increased risk for certain health conditions.