A series of chemical reactions called pathways are enzyme-catalyzed reactions that occur in a specific sequence.
Question
A series of chemical reactions called pathways are enzyme-catalyzed reactions that occur in a specific sequence.
Solution
That's correct! In biochemistry, metabolic pathways consist of a series of enzyme-catalyzed reactions that convert substrates into products through a sequence of steps. Each enzyme in the pathway facilitates a specific reaction, contributing to the overall process.
These pathways are crucial for various cellular functions, including energy production, biosynthesis of macromolecules, and the breakdown of harmful compounds. They can be classified generally into two categories:
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Catabolic Pathways: These pathways break down larger molecules into smaller units, releasing energy (e.g., glycolysis is a catabolic pathway that breaks down glucose).
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Anabolic Pathways: These involve the synthesis of larger molecules from smaller ones, which typically requires energy (e.g., the synthesis of proteins from amino acids).
The regulation of these pathways is vital for maintaining cellular homeostasis, and they are influenced by factors such as enzyme concentration, substrate availability, and cellular conditions. Understanding these pathways is fundamental in fields such as metabolism, pharmacology, and biotechnology.
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