Phase I metabolism

Phase I metabolism refers to the body’s process of modifying substances to make them easier to eliminate. This usually involves chemical reactions like oxidation, reduction, or hydrolysis, which introduce or expose functional groups on a molecule. These changes can make the substance less active or prepare it for further transformation in Phase II metabolism, where it gets conjugated with other molecules for excretion. This process is crucial for breaking down drugs, toxins, and other compounds we encounter, helping maintain our body’s balance and protecting us from harmful substances.