ALDH2 Inhibitors

ALDH2 inhibitors belong to a specific chemical class of compounds that are designed to target and selectively inhibit the activity of the enzyme Aldehyde Dehydrogenase 2 (ALDH2). ALDH2 is a crucial enzyme involved in the metabolism of aldehydes, particularly acetaldehyde, a toxic byproduct of alcohol and certain drug metabolism. In its active state, ALDH2 efficiently converts acetaldehyde into less harmful substances. However, certain conditions or genetic variants may lead to abnormal ALDH2 activity, resulting in impaired acetaldehyde metabolism and subsequent adverse effects. ALDH2 inhibitors are designed to interact with the active site of the enzyme, impeding its catalytic function and reducing the rate of acetaldehyde breakdown. By doing so, these inhibitors allow acetaldehyde to accumulate, leading to an increased presence of this toxic compound in the body. This heightened acetaldehyde concentration can be harnessed in research settings to study its effects on various biological processes. Additionally, the development and study of ALDH2 inhibitors can offer valuable insights into the role of ALDH2 in normal physiology and pathological conditions. Researchers and scientists often utilize ALDH2 inhibitors as tools to investigate the metabolism of acetaldehyde and its implications in health and disease.