What is the function of cytochrome P450 enzymes in arthropods?

What is the function of cytochrome P450 enzymes in arthropods?

• A. Synthesis of chitin for cuticle formation.
• B. Transporting oxygen in the hemolymph.
• C. Detoxifying xenobiotics and regulating hormones essential for growth and reproduction.
• D. Generating ATP for cellular energy production.

Answer: (C)

Cytochrome P450 enzymes are heme-containing monooxygenases that catalyze oxidation of a wide variety of substrates. In arthropods, their main role is to detoxify xenobiotics—such as plant toxins and insecticides—and to metabolize endogenous hormones that govern growth, development, and reproduction (notably ecdysteroids and juvenile hormone). This dual function helps insects cope with chemical defenses in their environment and finely regulate life-cycle transitions. These enzymes usually reside in the endoplasmic reticulum and require NADPH via a P450 reductase to transfer oxygen into substrates, a process that can be induced by chemical exposure and contribute to insecticide resistance. The other processes listed are carried out by different systems: chitin synthesis uses chitin synthase, oxygen transport relies on hemocyanin, and ATP production is driven by mitochondrial respiration and ATP synthase.

Cytochrome P450 enzymes are heme-containing monooxygenases that catalyze oxidation of a wide variety of substrates. In arthropods, their main role is to detoxify xenobiotics—such as plant toxins and insecticides—and to metabolize endogenous hormones that govern growth, development, and reproduction (notably ecdysteroids and juvenile hormone). This dual function helps insects cope with chemical defenses in their environment and finely regulate life-cycle transitions. These enzymes usually reside in the endoplasmic reticulum and require NADPH via a P450 reductase to transfer oxygen into substrates, a process that can be induced by chemical exposure and contribute to insecticide resistance. The other processes listed are carried out by different systems: chitin synthesis uses chitin synthase, oxygen transport relies on hemocyanin, and ATP production is driven by mitochondrial respiration and ATP synthase.