Where is alcohol metabolized?

Where is alcohol metabolized?

• A. Kidneys
• B. Lungs
• C. Liver
• D. Brain

Answer: (C)

Alcohol is primarily metabolized in the liver. In liver cells, alcohol dehydrogenase converts ethanol to acetaldehyde, which is then rapidly transformed into acetate by acetaldehyde dehydrogenase. The acetate can enter normal energy production pathways. A secondary route, the microsomal ethanol oxidizing system (CYP2E1), also contributes, especially with higher or chronic intake. Small amounts of metabolism occur in the stomach and other tissues, but the liver handles the bulk of the work. Excretion of alcohol happens mainly through the lungs (breath) and to a lesser extent the kidneys, while the brain experiences its effects rather than serving as a major site of metabolism.

Alcohol is primarily metabolized in the liver. In liver cells, alcohol dehydrogenase converts ethanol to acetaldehyde, which is then rapidly transformed into acetate by acetaldehyde dehydrogenase. The acetate can enter normal energy production pathways. A secondary route, the microsomal ethanol oxidizing system (CYP2E1), also contributes, especially with higher or chronic intake. Small amounts of metabolism occur in the stomach and other tissues, but the liver handles the bulk of the work. Excretion of alcohol happens mainly through the lungs (breath) and to a lesser extent the kidneys, while the brain experiences its effects rather than serving as a major site of metabolism.