In chronic alcoholics which the following enzymes are inhibited-
**Core Concept**
Glycogen phosphorylase kinase is a crucial enzyme involved in the breakdown of glycogen to glucose, a vital process for maintaining blood glucose levels. Chronic alcoholism leads to alterations in metabolic pathways, particularly in enzymes related to glycogen metabolism.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Chronic alcoholism inhibits glycogen phosphorylase kinase, leading to reduced glycogen breakdown. This inhibition is due to the accumulation of lactate and NADH, which decrease the activity of the enzyme. Glycogen phosphorylase kinase is a key regulator of glycogenolysis, and its inhibition disrupts the normal breakdown of glycogen to glucose. This disruption has significant implications for blood glucose regulation in chronic alcoholics.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option B:** Phosphofructokinase is an enzyme involved in glycolysis, but it is not directly inhibited by chronic alcoholism. Phosphofructokinase is actually activated in response to increased lactate levels.
* **Option C:** Lactate dehydrogenase is an enzyme involved in the conversion of pyruvate to lactate. While lactate levels are increased in chronic alcoholism, lactate dehydrogenase is not inhibited by this condition.
* **Option D:** Alcohol dehydrogenase is an enzyme involved in the metabolism of alcohol, but it is not inhibited by chronic alcoholism. Instead, alcohol dehydrogenase is induced to break down the increased levels of alcohol.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Chronic alcoholism can lead to hypoglycemia due to the inhibition of glycogen phosphorylase kinase, which disrupts glycogen breakdown and glucose release. This is a critical consideration in the management of chronic alcoholics, particularly in the context of withdrawal or other metabolic stressors.
**β Correct Answer: A. Glycogen phosphorylase kinase**