Modification of proteins and other biological molecules by acetaldehyde: adduct structure and functional significance.

1. Chronic ethanol consumption is a major cause of liver disease. The modification of hepatic proteins by acetaldehyde (AcH), the primary metabolite of ethanol, has for some time been suggested as one of the major events initiating alcoholic liver disease. 2. These alterations in protein structure are believed to affect liver cell function, and may serve to activate the immune system. 3. This review considers the interaction between AcH and macromolecules and its functional implications.