In the detoxification process in peroxisomes, which substance is chiefly oxidized?

In the detoxification process that occurs within peroxisomes, the substance that is chiefly oxidized is fatty acids. Peroxisomes are cellular organelles that play a crucial role in lipid metabolism and detoxification processes. They contain enzymes like acyl-CoA oxidase, which is essential for the beta-oxidation of very long-chain fatty acids.

While alcohol is indeed processed and metabolized by the liver, the primary oxidative pathway for its detoxification occurs in the smooth endoplasmic reticulum, not within peroxisomes. Instead, peroxisomes process fatty acids, converting them into acetyl-CoA, which can then enter the citric acid cycle for energy production or can be utilized in other metabolic pathways. This process is particularly important for maintaining cellular lipid homeostasis and regulating the levels of hydrogen peroxide generated during these reactions, since peroxisomes contain catalase to break down hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen.

Considering this context, it is clear that fatty acids are the predominant substrates oxidized in peroxisomes during detoxification processes, highlighting their significant metabolic role in cellular function.