What is the Clinical Significance of Glucuronic Acid?
Glucuronic acid's role in detoxification has significant clinical implications. Impairments in glucuronidation can lead to the accumulation of toxic substances, potentially resulting in adverse drug reactions or hepatotoxicity. Genetic variations in UGTs can influence an individual's ability to detoxify certain substances, impacting drug efficacy and safety. For instance, variations in UGT1A1 can lead to Gilbert's syndrome, affecting bilirubin metabolism and increasing the risk of hyperbilirubinemia.