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Pathways of Human Metabolism
Cell Survivor and Communication (IMED1003)
University of Western Australia
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Pathways of Human Metabolism
Metabolism is the process by which the body converts food into energy and nutrients. It is a complex and highly regulated process involving thousands of reactions and pathways. The metabolic pathways that humans use to break down and store energy from food are divided into two categories: catabolism and anabolism. Catabolism is the breaking down of complex molecules such as carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins into simple molecules like glucose, fatty acids, and amino acids. These simple molecules are then used to produce energy and can be used to build larger molecules needed for growth and function. Anabolism is the process of building large molecules from smaller molecules, which is necessary for growth and repair of the body. The pathways of human metabolism are divided into three main categories: glycolysis, the citric acid cycle, and oxidative phosphorylation. Glycolysis is the process by which glucose molecules are broken down into pyruvate molecules and a small amount of ATP is produced. The citric acid cycle is a sequence of chemical reactions that uses the pyruvate molecules from glycolysis to produce ATP, NADH, and other molecules. Oxidative phosphorylation is the process by which the NADH and other molecules produced in the citric acid cycle are used to generate more ATP. All of these processes are highly regulated and are essential for the body's energy needs. The pathways of human metabolism are essential for the body to obtain energy, build molecules, and perform necessary functions. Without these metabolic pathways, the body would not be able to function efficiently and would quickly fatigue.
Human metabolism is the complex network of chemical reactions that take place in the body to maintain life. It is the process by which the body converts food into energy and building blocks for growth and repair. There are two main pathways of human metabolism: catabolism, which breaks down molecules to release energy, and anabolism, which uses energy to build complex molecules. Both of these pathways are integrated and work together to maintain the balance of energy and nutrients in the body. Catabolism is the process of breaking down complex molecules, such as carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins, into smaller molecules that can be used for energy. This process is essential for maintaining energy levels in the body and supporting its many functions. There are several pathways involved in catabolism, including glycolysis, the citric acid cycle, and oxidative phosphorylation. Glycolysis is the first step in the breakdown of glucose and is the primary source of energy for cells that do not have access to oxygen, such as muscle cells. During glycolysis, glucose is broken down into two molecules of pyruvate, which are then further processed to release energy. The citric acid cycle, also known as the Krebs cycle, is a series of chemical reactions that take place in the mitochondria of cells. During the citric acid cycle, pyruvate is
converted into acetyl-CoA, which enters the cycle and is converted into several different intermediates that release energy. This energy is used to generate ATP, the primary source of energy for cells. Oxidative phosphorylation is the process by which energy is released from the breakdown of glucose and other molecules. This process takes place in the mitochondria of cells and involves the transfer of electrons from the breakdown products of glucose to oxygen, generating ATP in the process. Anabolism is the process of using energy to build complex molecules, such as carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins. This process is essential for growth, repair, and maintenance of the body's tissues. Anabolism is driven by enzymes, which catalyze the reactions that build complex molecules. The process of anabolism is closely linked to catabolism, as energy is required to drive the reactions of anabolism. One important aspect of human metabolism is the regulation of energy balance. The body uses energy to perform its many functions, including maintaining body temperature, supporting muscle contraction, and fueling the brain. The body also stores energy in the form of glycogen, fat, and protein, which can be used to support energy needs when food is not available. This regulation is achieved through a complex interplay of hormones, enzymes, and metabolic pathways that work together to maintain energy balance in the body. In conclusion, human metabolism is the complex network of chemical reactions that take place in the body to maintain life. It is the process by which the body converts food into energy and building blocks for growth and repair. The two main pathways of human metabolism are catabolism, which breaks down molecules to release energy, and anabolism, which uses energy to build complex molecules. Both of these pathways are integrated and work together to maintain the balance of energy and nutrients in the body and to regulate energy balance. Understanding the pathways of human metabolism is essential for understanding the many processes that sustain life and support the health and well-being of the body.
Pathways of Human Metabolism
Course: Cell Survivor and Communication (IMED1003)
University: University of Western Australia
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