Metabolism - Energy, Life, and Transformation
The module explores the intricate mechanisms of metabolism, emphasizing energy transactions as governed by thermodynamics within living organisms. It differentiates between exothermic and endothermic reactions, alongside exergonic and endergonic processes, establishing ATP as the key energy currency facilitating both catabolic and anabolic pathways. Furthermore, it discusses the concept of energy charge, providing insight into how cells maintain energy homeostasis and regulate metabolic flux.
Sections
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What we have learnt
- Metabolism consists of all biochemical reactions within a cell, involving energy acquisition, synthesis of molecules, waste elimination, and execution of specialized functions.
- The two primary types of metabolic pathways include catabolic (energy-yielding) and anabolic (energy-consuming) pathways, which are interlinked.
- ATP serves as the main energy currency in cells, whose hydrolysis plays a crucial role in driving various cellular processes.
Key Concepts
- -- Metabolism
- The totality of biochemical reactions occurring within a cell, necessary for growth, reproduction, and response to the environment.
- -- ATP Hydrolysis
- The process of breaking down ATP into ADP and inorganic phosphate, releasing energy vital for cellular work.
- -- Gibbs Free Energy
- A thermodynamic quantity that indicates the maximum reversible work obtainable from a thermodynamic system at constant temperature and pressure.
- -- Energy Charge
- A measure of the energy status within a cell, calculated based on the concentrations of ATP, ADP, and AMP, guiding metabolic regulation.
Additional Learning Materials
Supplementary resources to enhance your learning experience.