Biochemistry of xenobiotics

The book examines the most important biochemical transformations of foreign substances (xenobiotics) that have entered the body. The biotransformations of xenobiotics in humans and animals are detailed. Enzyme-catalyzed oxidation, reduction, and hydrolysis reactions (Phase I reactions) and condensation reactions for the formation of paired compounds (Phase II reactions) are followed. Special attention is paid to the biological consequences of biotransformations - disposal, activation, emergence of metabolites with carcinogenic action. The biotransformations of various groups are considered xenobiotics – industrial poisons, pesticides, medicines, household chemicals, etc. A significant place is devoted to the biotransformations of xenobiotics under the action of soil microorganisms as a factor in the self-purification of the natural environment. The biotransformations of xenobiotics in plants are also considered. The textbook is intended for students - biologists and chemists, but it will be of great interest to a wide range of readers: biologists, chemists, doctors, biochemists, pharmacologists, toxicologists, specialists in environmental protection.