Toxicokinetics refers to the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) of toxic substances. Glycoproteins can influence these processes in several ways:
Absorption: Glycoproteins such as P-glycoprotein act as efflux transporters that can pump toxins out of cells, reducing their absorption and subsequent toxicity. Distribution: Glycoproteins can alter the distribution of toxins by modifying cellular membranes, affecting how toxins are transported across cell barriers. Metabolism: Glycoproteins can interact with enzymes involved in the metabolic processing of toxins, either enhancing or inhibiting their activity. Excretion: Efflux glycoproteins also play a role in the excretion of toxins, especially in organs like the liver and kidneys, where they help in eliminating harmful substances from the body.
