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.
