Question

Paracetamol has first-pass metabolism. The analysis of the cells from the liver of the patient taking paracetamol for the last five years shows that it has a more smooth ER than the person not taking paracetamol. Explain why the number of smooth ER in the liver cell of a person taking paracetamol is high.

A. Increased drug metabolism
B. Enhanced cellular communication
C. Detoxification of drugs
D. Suppression of enzyme activity

Answer 1

Chronic paracetamol use leads to an increase in the smooth endoplasmic reticulum in liver cells, aiding in the detoxification process to efficiently metabolize and reduce the toxicity of the drug.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question addresses how chronic paracetamol use influences the structure of liver cells. Specifically, it asks why the number of smooth endoplasmic reticulum (SER) is higher in the liver cells of someone who has been taking paracetamol for a long time. The correct answer is 'Detoxification of drugs.' The SER plays a crucial role in the detoxification process in liver cells by metabolizing drugs. The increase in SER is a cellular response to the continuous presence of paracetamol. This adaptation serves to efficiently process and detoxify the drug, thus preventing harmful accumulations within the body. Elevated SER levels can increase the capacity of liver cells to metabolize paracetamol via the first-pass metabolism, rendering it less toxic before it enters systemic circulation.