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Sulfation

Meaning

Sulfation is a crucial Phase II detoxification and conjugation pathway in human metabolism, involving the transfer of a sulfate group ($text{SO}_3^-$) from a donor molecule, primarily 3′-phosphoadenosine-5′-phosphosulfate (PAPS), to a substrate molecule. This biochemical process is essential for the detoxification and elimination of various endogenous compounds, including steroid hormones, thyroid hormones, and neurotransmitters, as well as exogenous drugs and toxins. Sulfation generally increases the water solubility of these compounds, facilitating their renal excretion.