Enzymes are a type of protein that catalyze biochemical reactions, including those involved in detoxification. The cytochrome P450 family of enzymes is particularly important in the metabolism of toxicants. These enzymes can convert lipophilic compounds into more hydrophilic metabolites, facilitating their excretion from the body. However, this process can sometimes result in the formation of reactive intermediates, which can be more toxic than the parent compound.
