Enzymes metabolize toxins through a series of biochemical reactions typically categorized into two phases. Phase I reactions involve hydrolysis, oxidation, or reduction, which introduce or expose a functional group on the toxin. Phase II reactions involve conjugation, where the toxin is coupled with another substance to make it more water-soluble and easier to excrete. Enzymes like cytochrome P450 play a significant role in Phase I, while glutathione S-transferases are key players in Phase II.
