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CYP450 Enzyme System

Meaning

The CYP450 Enzyme System, or Cytochrome P450 system, is a superfamily of heme-containing monooxygenase enzymes primarily located in the liver, though present in most tissues, playing a crucial role in metabolism. These enzymes are fundamentally responsible for the oxidative metabolism of endogenous compounds, including steroid hormones, fatty acids, and bile acids, as well as the detoxification and elimination of exogenous substances like drugs and environmental toxins. Their activity directly impacts the half-life and biological efficacy of circulating hormones and administered pharmaceuticals.