Nucleic Acid Metabolism

Metabolism

• Metabolism refers to the collective biochemical reactions that occur within an organism to maintain life, including the breakdown and synthesis of organic molecules.

Metabolites

• Metabolites are the intermediate products of metabolism, formed during the breakdown or synthesis of organic molecules.

Anabolism and Catabolism

• Anabolism is the process of building or synthesizing molecules, requiring energy and resulting in the growth and repair of cells.
• Catabolism is the process of breaking down molecules, releasing energy and resulting in the degradation of cells.
• Anabolism and catabolism are complementary processes, often occurring simultaneously, and are necessary for maintaining cellular homeostasis.

Enzymes in Metabolic Pathways

• Enzymes are biological molecules, typically proteins, that catalyze specific chemical reactions in metabolic pathways, increasing reaction rates and efficiency.
• Enzymes act as biological catalysts, allowing metabolic reactions to occur at a rate necessary to sustain life.

Catabolic Pathways

• Catabolic pathways are metabolic reactions that break down complex molecules, such as carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, into simpler compounds, releasing energy in the form of ATP.
• Catabolic pathways are essential for generating energy and providing building blocks for anabolic reactions.