Alcohol is metabolized by ?
**Core Concept**
The metabolism of alcohol in the human body involves a series of enzyme-catalyzed reactions that convert ethanol into acetaldehyde and then into acetate, which is subsequently metabolized into carbon dioxide and water. This process is primarily facilitated by the enzyme alcohol dehydrogenase.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is ADH (Alcohol Dehydrogenase), an enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of ethanol to acetaldehyde. This reaction occurs in the cytosol of hepatocytes in the liver, where ADH is present in high concentrations. The product of this reaction, acetaldehyde, is then rapidly converted to acetate by the enzyme aldehyde dehydrogenase. The acetate is then further metabolized into carbon dioxide and water.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect as it does not accurately describe the primary enzyme responsible for alcohol metabolism.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect as it refers to a different enzyme involved in lipid metabolism, not alcohol metabolism.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect as it refers to a different enzyme involved in carbohydrate metabolism, not alcohol metabolism.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It's essential to note that excessive alcohol consumption can lead to the accumulation of acetaldehyde, a toxic metabolite that can cause damage to liver cells and contribute to the development of alcoholic liver disease.
**Correct Answer: A. Alcohol Dehydrogenase**