Final answer:
The two main classes of enzymes in the liver that oxidize alcohol are alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) and acetaldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH). ADH catalyzes the oxidation of ethanol to acetaldehyde, while ALDH converts acetaldehyde into acetate. Both enzymes play a crucial role in metabolizing alcohol and protecting the liver.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the liver, the two main classes of enzymes that oxidize alcohol are alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) and acetaldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH).
Alcohol dehydrogenase catalyzes the oxidation of ethanol to acetaldehyde, producing NADH and a hydrogen ion in the process. This is the first step in the breakdown of alcohol in the liver.
Acetaldehyde dehydrogenase converts the toxic acetaldehyde into acetate, a non-toxic molecule. The primary function of ADH and ALDH is to metabolize ethanol and protect the liver from the toxic effects of acetaldehyde.