Metabolites
Metabolites
Metabolites (/mɪˈtæbəlaɪts/) are the intermediates and products of metabolism. The term metabolite is usually restricted to small molecules. Metabolites have various functions, including fuel, structure, signaling, stimulatory and inhibitory effects on enzymes, catalytic activity of their own (usually as a cofactor to an enzyme), defense, and interactions with other organisms (e.g. pigments, odorants, and pheromones).
Etymology
The term "metabolite" is derived from the Greek word "metabole" which means "change" or "overthrow". It was first used in the context of biology in the early 20th century.
Types of Metabolites
Metabolites can be categorized into two main types: primary and secondary metabolites.
- Primary Metabolites are directly involved in normal growth, development, and reproduction. They are usually essential for the survival of the organism. Examples include amino acids, nucleic acids, and sugars.
- Secondary Metabolites are not directly involved in those processes, but usually have important ecological roles. Examples include antibiotics, pigments, and scents.
Related Terms
- Metabolism is the set of life-sustaining chemical reactions in organisms. The three main purposes of metabolism are: the conversion of food to energy to run cellular processes; the conversion of food/fuel to building blocks for proteins, lipids, nucleic acids, and some carbohydrates; and the elimination of nitrogenous wastes.
- Enzymes are proteins that act as biological catalysts (biocatalysts). Catalysts accelerate chemical reactions.
- Amino Acids are organic compounds that combine to form proteins. Amino acids and proteins are fundamental components of life.
- Nucleic Acids are biopolymers, or small biomolecules, essential to all known forms of life. They are composed of nucleotides, which are the monomers made of three components: a 5-carbon sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Metabolites
- Wikipedia's article - Metabolites
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