How Do Biotransformation Processes Aid in Elimination?
Biotransformation, primarily occurring in the liver, involves the conversion of toxic substances into more water-soluble metabolites that can be more easily excreted. This process involves two phases: Phase I (functionalization) and Phase II (conjugation). Phase I reactions introduce or expose functional groups on the toxin, while Phase II reactions involve the conjugation of these groups with endogenous molecules to increase solubility. These processes are essential for the efficient elimination of toxins.
