Gene CYP1A1
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Also known as
AHH, AHRR, CP11, P1-450, P450-C, cytochrome P450 1A1Overview
CYP1A1 (Cytochrome P450 Family 1 Subfamily A Member 1) encodes a phase I detoxification enzyme that metabolizes polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), environmental pollutants, and certain drugs. The enzyme is highly inducible by dioxins, cigarette smoke, and other environmental toxins through activation of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR).CYP1A1 activates procarcinogens like benzo[a]pyrene to reactive metabolites that can damage DNA. Genetic variants that increase CYP1A1 activity have been associated with elevated cancer risk, particularly lung cancer in smokers. The enzyme also metabolizes estrogens, with potential implications for hormone-related cancers and conditions.
Understanding your CYP1A1 genetic status has implications for cancer risk assessment and detoxification capacity. Individuals with high-activity variants may benefit from avoiding environmental carcinogen exposure and consuming cruciferous vegetables, which can modulate CYP1A1 activity through dietary compounds like indole-3-carbinol.