ALDH1.1: A Potential Drug Target for Detoxification and Disease

Target Name: Aldehyde Dehydrogenase

NCBI ID: P10237

Other Name(s): ALDH

ALDH1.1: A Potential Drug Target for Detoxification and Disease

Aldehyde Dehydrogenase (ALDH) is a gene that encodes a protein known as ALDH1.1, which is a key enzyme in the detoxification of aromatic compounds, such as those found in drugs, pesticides, and other environmental toxins. ALDH1.1 is responsible for converting these aromatic compounds to less toxic forms, which are then excreted from the body.

Recent studies have identified ALDH1.1 as a potential drug target for several reasons. First, many drugs and other toxins are metabolized by ALDH1.1, which makes them potentially more potent if the enzyme is inhibited. Second, ALDH1.1 is also involved in the production of other compounds that can be toxic, such as the metabolite of the herbicide 2,4,5-trihydroxy-2,4,5-triaminobutyric acid (2,4,5-TAB), which has been linked to a variety of negative health effects, including cancer, neurotoxicity, and reproductive problems.

Finally, ALDH1.1 has also been shown to play a role in the development of certain diseases, such as drug addiction and alcoholism. Studies have shown that individuals with certain genetic variations in the ALDH1.1 gene are more likely to develop these disorders, which suggests that targeting the enzyme may be a potential way to treat these conditions.

Despite these potential benefits, much more research is needed before ALDH1.1 can be safely and effectively targeted as a drug or biomarker. One major challenge is understanding how the ALDH1.1 enzyme functions and how it is regulated. This is because the enzyme is expressed in many different cell types and functions, making it difficult to study.

In addition, there is a need for more research on the potential side effects and risks of targeting ALDH1.1. Although the enzyme has not been shown to cause significant adverse effects in human studies, it is possible that it could have unintended consequences if it were to be targeted by drugs or other compounds.

Overall, while ALDH1.1 is a promising target for drug development due to its involvement in the detoxification of harmful compounds and its potential role in the development of certain diseases, more research is needed to fully understand its biology and potential risks.

Protein Name: Aldehyde Dehydrogenase (nonspecified Subtype)

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