Protein catabolism
Protein Catabolism
Protein catabolism (pronunciation: proh-TEEN kat-uh-BOL-iz-uhm) is the biological process that breaks down proteins into their individual amino acids through the action of enzymes. The term "catabolism" is derived from the Greek word "katabole," which means "to throw down," and it refers to a process of breaking down.
Process
Protein catabolism begins in the stomach, where the enzyme pepsin starts to break down proteins into smaller polypeptides. The process continues in the small intestine, where enzymes like trypsin and chymotrypsin further break down these polypeptides into amino acids. These amino acids are then absorbed into the bloodstream and transported to cells throughout the body.
In the cells, these amino acids can be used to build new proteins, or they can be broken down further to provide energy. This further breakdown is carried out by the mitochondria, the energy-producing organelles in the cell, in a process known as oxidative phosphorylation.
Significance
Protein catabolism is a crucial process in the body. It not only provides the amino acids that are necessary for the synthesis of new proteins, but it also provides energy for the body's cells. This is particularly important during periods of fasting or starvation, when the body must break down its own proteins to provide energy.
Related Terms
- Protein synthesis: The process by which new proteins are generated.
- Amino acid: The building blocks of proteins.
- Enzyme: Proteins that catalyze biochemical reactions.
- Mitochondria: Organelles in the cell that produce energy.
- Oxidative phosphorylation: The process by which ATP, the cell's energy currency, is produced in the mitochondria.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Protein catabolism
- Wikipedia's article - Protein catabolism
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