Sulphation

Phase 2 hepatic conjugation pathway in which a sulphate group is transferred onto a substrate (hormone, drug, phenol) by sulphotransferases. Major pathway for inactivation and elimination of steroid hormones (oestrogens, androgens, cortisol) and many xenobiotics. It depends on dietary sulphur intake (cruciferous vegetables, garlic, onions, eggs) and molybdenum. Saturation of this pathway may promote active oestrogen accumulation with potential repercussions on hormonosensitive skin.