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Does ethanol cause cell death?

GeneralClass 12AllAnswered 27 Mar 2026
Answer

Yes, ethanol causes cell death through multiple mechanisms. At high concentrations, it disrupts cell membranes, denatures proteins, and dehydrates cells. This is why it's effective as a disinfectant. In the human body, chronic alcohol exposure causes liver cells to die (hepatocyte death), leading to cirrhosis.

General · Class 12