Final answer:
Alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) catalyzes the conversion of ethanol to acetaldehyde, while aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) converts acetaldehyde to acetate, mitigating toxicity and protecting the liver.
Step-by-step explanation:
The enzyme alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) plays a crucial role in processing ethanol within the liver. It is responsible for the catalysis of ethanol to acetaldehyde, NADH, and H+ ion. This reaction signifies the first step in ethanol degradation and is part of the alcohol dehydrogenase system that processes 80 to 90% of hepatic ethanol uptake. Acetaldehyde, however, is highly toxic, which necessitates its immediate conversion to a less harmful substance to protect liver cells.
It is the role of aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) to continue the detoxification process by converting acetaldehyde into acetate, a far less toxic molecule. This conversion helps prevent the damage that acetaldehyde can cause within the body. The overall process involving ADH and ALDH is essential for preventing the accumulation of toxic by-products of alcohol metabolism.