ALDH2 (Aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 family) belongs to the aldehyde dehydrogenase family which catalyze the chemical transformation from acetaldehyde to acetic acid and is the second enzyme of the major oxidative pathway of alcohol metabolism. Aldehyde dehydrogenases (ALDHs) mediate NADP+-dependent oxidation of aldehydes into acids during detoxification of alcohol-derived acetaldehyde; lipid peroxidation; and metabolism of corticosteroids, biogenic amines and neurotransmitters. ALDH1A1, also designated retinal dehydrogenase 1 (RalDH1 or RALDH1); aldehyde dehydrogenase family 1 member A1; aldehyde dehydrogenase cytosolic; ALDHII; ALDH-E1 or ALDH E1, is a retinal dehydrogenase that participates in the biosynthesis of retinoic acid (RA). The major liver isoform ALDH1 localizes to cytosolic space, while ALDH2 localizes to the mitochondria. The ALDH1A2 (RALDH2, RALDH2-T) gene produces three different transcripts and also catalyzes the synthesis of RA from retinaldehyde. ALDH2 is present in most Caucasians, yet is absent in 50% of Asians. The absence of this enzyme has been linked to alcohol intolerance; and thusly, a reduced risk for alcoholism-related liver disease.
