Xenobiotic or Drug Metabolism Xenobiotic : Any compound entering into organism from outside such as: Synthetic intermediates Industrial Chemicals Drugs Cosmetics and Dyes Food additives Air pollutants Tobacco smoke These xenobiotics can be metabolised in the body to new products «metabolites» by specific enzymes

What is the aim of drug metabolism? Increasing polarity and elimination Decreasing toxicity especially with Phase II reactions What is the main place for drug metabolism reactions ? Liver What is the difference between in vivo and in vitro drug metabolism studies? In vivo studies are carried out in intact animals, the final phase of the metabolism in body fluides (phase II) can be established. In vitro studies are carried out liver preparations (microsomes) The intermediate products of the metabolism (phase I) can be established.

What is the aim of drug metabolism? Increasing polarity and elimination Decreasing toxicity especially with Phase II reactions What is the main place for drug metabolism reactions ? Liver What is the difference between in vivo and in vitro drug metabolism studies? In vivo studies are carried out in intact animals, the final phase of the metabolism in body fluides (phase II) can be established. In vitro studies are carried out liver preparations (microsomes) The intermediate products of the metabolism (phase I) can be established.

Why drug metabolism important in terms of medicinal chemistry ? Pro-drugs may be designed. Pharmacologically active metabolites can be manufactured as a potential drug. If toxic metabolites are established, then the drug may be prohibited.