What is the Difference Between Biotransformation and Metabolism?

Biotransformation and metabolism are related terms, but they have different scopes and focuses. Here are the key differences between the two:

1. Scope: Biotransformation is a specific process that involves the chemical modification of a substance within the body, such as a drug or a nutrient. In contrast, metabolism is a broader term that encompasses all the biochemical reactions taking place within an organism.
2. Target: Biotransformation primarily targets specific molecules or drugs, focusing on the chemical changes that result in functional changes. Metabolism, on the other hand, involves the whole organism and includes various biochemical processes, such as digestion, respiration, and excretion.
3. Processes: Biotransformation processes include detoxification (producing metabolites with lower toxicity) and bioactivation (producing metabolites with higher toxicity). Metabolism includes various processes like phase I (oxidation, reduction, hydrolysis) and phase II (conjugation) reactions, which occur primarily in the liver.
4. Location: Biotransformation occurs in specific locations within the body, such as the liver, kidneys, lungs, and intestines. Metabolism takes place throughout the entire organism, as it involves all the biochemical reactions occurring in a living organism.

In summary, biotransformation is a specific process within the broader context of metabolism. While both involve biochemical reactions, biotransformation focuses on the chemical modification of specific substances, whereas metabolism encompasses all the biochemical processes within an organism.

Comparative Table: Biotransformation vs Metabolism

Here is a table comparing biotransformation and metabolism:

In summary, biotransformation is a specific process involving the transformation of a particular compound or drug within the body, while metabolism is a broader term that encompasses all biochemical reactions taking place in a living organism.