Epoxide hydrolases are enzymes that catalyze the conversion of epoxides into diols. Epoxides are reactive compounds that can form from various sources, including the metabolism of certain drugs and environmental pollutants. By hydrolyzing these compounds, epoxide hydrolases help detoxify potentially harmful substances in the body. These enzymes are found in many organisms, including humans, and play a crucial role in the metabolism of xenobiotics—substances foreign to the body. They contribute to the biotransformation process, making toxic compounds more water-soluble and easier to excrete, thus protecting cells from damage.