What is CYP3A4 enzyme?
Cytochrome P450 3A4 (abbreviated CYP3A4) (EC 1.14. 13.97) is an important enzyme in the body, mainly 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.
Where are cytochromes P450 found?
liver cells
Cytochrome P450 enzymes are primarily found in liver cells but are also located in cells throughout the body. While a large body of knowledge exists on the role of CYP450s in xenobiotic metabolism, recent studies have begun to reveal the endogenous functions carried out by this important superfamily of enzymes.
What is the role of cytochrome P450 in biotransformation?
The cytochrome P450 system catalyzes the insertion of an oxygen atom into CH and NH bonds, the epoxidation of π bonds, and the addition of an oxygen atom to the electron pairs of nitrogen, sulfur, and phosphorus atoms. Other types of cytochrome P450-catalyzed reactions occasionally occur.
What happens when you induce CYP450?
Enzyme Induction CYP enzyme inducers increase the rate of hepatic metabolism, usually through increased transcription of mRNA, and decrease serum concentrations of other drugs metabolized by the same hepatic isoenzyme.
What does a CYP3A4 inducer do?
CYP3A4 inducers are drugs that increase the activity of CYP3A4. Note that the CYP3A4 enzyme is particularly susceptible to enzyme inducers, and marked reductions in the plasma concentrations of CYP3A4 substrates may occur.
How do you increase CYP3A4?
St. John’s wort and common valerian were the strongest inducing herbs. In addition to induction of CYP3A4 by St. John’s wort, common valerian and Ginkgo biloba increased the activity of CYP3A4 and 2D6 and CYP1A2 and 2D6, respectively.
What is the reason behind the name cytochrome P450?
The name “cytochrome P450 enzymes” is derived due to their several characteristics; they are bound to the membrane of cells (cyto) and contain heme pigment (chrome and P). When bound to carbon monoxide, these proteins produce a spectrum with a wavelength at approximately 450 nm.