Detoxification

Set of biochemical processes by which the body transforms and eliminates potentially toxic substances, whether endogenous (hormones, bilirubin, ammonia) or exogenous (drugs, pesticides, alcohol, pollutants). Hepatic detoxification occurs in two main phases: phase 1 (oxidation via cytochrome P450) which makes toxins more soluble, and phase 2 (conjugation) which makes them water-soluble for elimination via bile or urine. An imbalance between these two phases can generate reactive intermediates more toxic than the original substance.