In liver, which of the following is responsible for metabolism of alcohol ?
**Core Concept**
The metabolism of alcohol in the liver involves the conversion of ethanol into acetaldehyde, which is then further metabolized into acetate. This process is primarily catalyzed by an enzyme that is induced by chronic alcohol consumption.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct enzyme responsible for the initial metabolism of alcohol is alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH). ADH is a cytosolic enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of ethanol to acetaldehyde, using NAD+ as a cofactor. This reaction is the first step in the metabolism of alcohol in the liver. The induction of ADH by chronic alcohol consumption allows for increased metabolism of alcohol, leading to the accumulation of acetaldehyde and subsequent toxicity.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect as it does not specify the correct enzyme responsible for alcohol metabolism. While the liver does contain other enzymes involved in alcohol metabolism, such as aldehyde dehydrogenase, this option is too vague to be correct.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect as it is not a specific enzyme involved in alcohol metabolism. The liver contains many enzymes involved in various metabolic pathways, but this option does not accurately describe the enzyme responsible for alcohol metabolism.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect as it is not a specific enzyme involved in alcohol metabolism. While the liver does contain enzymes involved in the metabolism of other compounds, this option does not accurately describe the enzyme responsible for alcohol metabolism.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Chronic alcohol consumption leads to the induction of alcohol dehydrogenase, allowing for increased metabolism of alcohol and subsequent accumulation of acetaldehyde, leading to toxicity. This is an important consideration in the management of patients with alcohol use disorder.
**Correct Answer:** C. Alcohol dehydrogenase.