CYP3A4
CYP3A4
CYP3A4 (pronounced as "S-I-P-Three-A-Four") is a member of the cytochrome P450 superfamily of enzymes. The cytochrome P450 proteins are monooxygenases which catalyze many reactions involved in drug metabolism and synthesis of cholesterol, steroids and other lipids.
Etymology
The term CYP3A4 is derived from the nomenclature used to denote the cytochrome P450 enzymes. "CYP" stands for "CYtochrome P450", "3" represents the family, "A" indicates the subfamily, and "4" is the individual gene.
Function
CYP3A4 is an important enzyme in the body, primarily found in the liver and in the intestine. It oxidizes small foreign organic molecules (xenobiotics), such as toxins or drugs, so that they can be removed from the body.
Related Terms
- Cytochrome P450: A large and diverse group of enzymes that catalyze the oxidation of organic substances.
- Xenobiotics: A foreign compound or substance seen by the body, which includes drugs, plant compounds, and environmental pollutants.
- Metabolism: The set of life-sustaining chemical reactions in organisms.
- Enzyme: Proteins that act as biological catalysts (biocatalysts).
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on CYP3A4
- Wikipedia's article - CYP3A4
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