Lecture #21 & 22 - MEOS and Alcohol Metabolism Flashcards
What is MEOS and where is it located?
MEOS is microsomal and associated with the smooth endoplasmic reticulum.
What substances can MEOS oxidize?
MEOS can oxidize a variety of compounds, including fatty acids, aromatic hydrocarbons, steroids, and barbiturate drugs.
How does MEOS contribute to detoxification?
MEOS exerts an important detoxifying effect when the organism is exposed to high amounts of alcohol.
How does ethanol affect MEOS synthesis?
Ethanol induces the synthesis of MEOS, which can increase tolerance to alcohol and other substances oxidized by MEOS over time.
Why might women generally display lower tolerance for alcohol than men?
Women have smaller body sizes and more fat mass, a smaller liver to metabolize ethanol, and less body water to dilute alcohol.
What are the metabolic effects of acetaldehyde?
Acetaldehyde covalently binds to proteins, nucleotides, and phospholipids, forming ‘adducts’ that impair their function and promote free radical damage.
List some health implications of alcoholism.
Fatty liver disease, ketosis, ketoacidosis, hypoglycemia, hepatic cirrhosis or scarring, and hepatic fibrosis.
What happens to the liver once hepatic cirrhosis occurs?
Most hepatic functions are lost, impairing synthesis and production of albumin, blood coagulation proteins, and other crucial serum proteins.
What are some harmful effects of ethanol on the GI tract and brain?
Inflammation of the esophagus and stomach, disruption of neuronal communication, loss of coordination, sleepiness, impaired cognitive function, and severe brain damage in the long run.
What are some beneficial effects of moderate alcohol consumption?
An inverse relationship with coronary artery disease and stroke occurrence, increased HDL and antioxidant effects, and reduction in the risk of cognitive impairment and dementia in the elderly.
What are the risks associated with even low to moderate alcohol consumption?
Increased risk of breast cancer in women and an increased risk of developing hypertension in men.
What defines a ‘safe’ level of alcohol consumption?
1 drink/day for women and 2 drinks/day for men
