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One function of the liver is to detoxify alcohol taken into the body. What is the organelle that most directly affects this process?

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Final answer:

The mitochondria are the most directly involved organelle in the detoxification of alcohol within liver cells, supported by peroxisomes which also play a role in reducing the toxicity of substances.

Step-by-step explanation:

The organelle that most directly affects the process of detoxifying alcohol in the human body is the mitochondria. In liver cells, or hepatocytes, alcohol is processed through the alcohol dehydrogenase system. The enzyme alcohol dehydrogenase converts alcohol into acetaldehyde, which is toxic. Following this, the enzyme acetaldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) converts acetaldehyde into acetate, a less harmful substance. The liver cells contain a high number of mitochondria, which are vital for energy production and are also instrumental in the detoxification processes. These organelles provide the necessary environment and energy for the detoxification enzymes to function efficiently.

Additionally, another organelle that contributes to the breakdown and elimination of toxins, including alcohol, are peroxisomes. Peroxisomes in liver cells aid in reducing the toxicity of various substances before they are released into the bloodstream.

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