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Chapter 4

Introduction to Metabolism

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Living cells constantly carry out various chemical reactions which are necessary for their proper functioning. These reactions are interlinked to one …
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Carbohydrates are polymers composed of molecules containing atoms of carbon, hydrogen and oxygen. One gram of carbohydrate can provide four kilo-calories …
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In cellular metabolism (the complete breakdown of glucose to extract energy),  glycolysis is the first step. Glycolysis takes place in the cytoplasm …
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Pyruvate is the end product of glycolysis, where glucose is oxidized to pyruvate, simultaneously reducing NAD+ to NADH. Two molecules of ATP are also …
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The energy released from the breakdown of the chemical bonds within nutrients can be stored either through the reduction of electron carriers or in the …
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Nitrogen is a very important element for life because it is a major constituent of proteins and nucleic acids. It is a macronutrient, and in nature, it is …
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Lipids also are sources of energy that power cellular processes. Like carbohydrates, lipids are composed of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, but these atoms …
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Sugar (a simple carbohydrate) metabolism (chemical reactions) is a classic example of the many cellular processes that use and produce energy. Living …
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Cellular needs and conditions vary from cell to cell and change within individual cells over time. For example, the required enzymes and energetic demands …
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Animal organs and organ systems constantly adjust to internal and external changes through a process called homeostasis ("steady state"). Examples …
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So far, glycolysis has cost the cell two ATP molecules and produced two small, three-carbon sugar molecules. These molecules will proceed through the …
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Triglycerides are a form of long-term energy storage molecules. They are made of glycerol and three fatty acids. To obtain energy from fat, triglycerides …
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Parasponia andersonii is a fast-growing tropical tree that belongs to the Cannabis family (Cannabaceae). Together with 4 additional species, it forms the …
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Hematopoietic stem progenitor cells (HSPCs) have distinct metabolic plasticity, which allows them to transition from their quiescent state to a …
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Fatty acid β-oxidation is a key metabolic pathway to meet the energy demands of the liver and provide substrates and cofactors for additional …