What is one of the main metabolites of alcohol produced via ADH?

The primary metabolite of alcohol produced through the action of alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) is acetaldehyde. When ethanol, the active component of alcoholic beverages, is consumed, it is first metabolized in the liver by the enzyme ADH. This enzymatic conversion involves the oxidation of ethanol, resulting in the formation of acetaldehyde, which is a highly reactive and toxic compound.

Acetaldehyde is significant because it is not only a direct product of alcohol metabolism, but it also plays a crucial role in the pathophysiology of alcohol-related disorders. The accumulation of acetaldehyde can lead to various adverse effects, such as flushing, nausea, and hangover symptoms, due to its toxicity. Additionally, prolonged exposure to high levels of acetaldehyde has been linked to an increased risk of developing certain cancers, particularly in individuals with impaired ability to metabolize it, such as those with variations in the enzyme aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH). This makes acetaldehyde a key metabolite in understanding the effects and risks associated with alcohol consumption.

In contrast, ethanol is the substance being metabolized rather than a product, acetate is a secondary metabolite that arises from further metabolism of acetaldehyde, and the