Exploring metabolic pathways reveals how organisms convert nutrients into energy and essential molecules for growth and repair. These pathways, categorized as anabolic, catabolic, and amphibolic, involve complex networks of enzymes that facilitate the synthesis and breakdown of compounds. Central processes like glycolysis, the Citric Acid Cycle, and oxidative phosphorylation are crucial for energy production, while photosynthesis and cellular respiration illustrate the energy cycle in ecosystems.
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Enzymes accelerate the transformation of substrates into products in metabolic pathways
Anabolic Pathways
Anabolic pathways use energy to construct complex molecules from simpler ones
Catabolic Pathways
Catabolic pathways release energy by breaking down complex molecules into simpler compounds
Amphibolic Pathways
Amphibolic pathways serve dual roles in both the synthesis and degradation of molecules
Key metabolic processes include the storage and breakdown of energy, production of ATP, and synthesis of essential molecules
Light-dependent reactions
Light-dependent reactions use light energy to produce ATP and NADPH
Calvin cycle
The Calvin cycle uses ATP and NADPH to synthesize glucose
Stages of Cellular Respiration (glycolysis, pyruvate oxidation, Citric Acid Cycle, oxidative phosphorylation)
Cellular respiration involves the breakdown of glucose to produce ATP through a series of stages
Photosynthesis and cellular respiration form a biological cycle that connects the energy needs of autotrophs and heterotrophs in ecosystems
Metabolic pathways are highly complex and interrelated, reflecting the sophisticated mechanisms organisms have evolved to sustain life
Many metabolic pathways are conserved across different species, suggesting a common evolutionary origin
Anaerobic processes, such as fermentation, are believed to be ancient metabolic routes that mirror the conditions of early Earth's atmosphere
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Definition of Metabolic Pathways
Networks of biochemical reactions converting nutrients into energy and growth blocks.
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Meaning of Metabolism
Total chemical transformations within a cell or organism, from Greek 'metabolismos' for change.
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Functions of Metabolic Processes
Essential for energy production, synthesis of molecules, and recycling of waste in ecosystems.
