catabolism
/kə'tæbəlizm/
Definition
- Noun:
- The metabolic breakdown of complex molecules into simpler ones, releasing energy: In biology, "catabolism" refers to the set of metabolic pathways that break down complex organic molecules (like proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates) into simpler ones (like amino acids, fatty acids, and simple sugars). This process releases energy, which is often stored as adenosine triphosphate (ATP) for the cell's use.
Usage
- General Scientific Context: The term is used primarily in biology, biochemistry, and physiology to describe one of the two main types of metabolism (the other being anabolism, which builds complex molecules).
- Describing a Process: It is used to label or discuss the destructive phase of metabolism.
Examples
- Noun:
- During intense exercise, muscle catabolism increases to provide energy.
- The catabolism of glucose, known as glycolysis, is a fundamental energy-releasing pathway.
- Starvation triggers widespread catabolism of fat and protein stores.
Advanced Usage
- "Catabolic state": A physiological condition where the body breaks down tissues.
- Prolonged illness can lead to a catabolic state, resulting in muscle wasting.
- "Catabolic pathway": A specific series of chemical reactions that breaks down a molecule.
- The citric acid cycle is a central catabolic pathway in cellular respiration.
Variants and Related Words
- Catabolic (adj): Relating to or characterized by catabolism.
- The hormone cortisol has catabolic effects on muscle tissue.
- Catabolize (verb, less common): To break down a complex substance by catabolism.
- Cells catabolize nutrients to generate energy.
Synonyms
- Breakdown: The general process of breaking something down into parts.
- Degradation: The process of being broken down, especially chemically or biologically.
- Dissimilation: A biological term for the breakdown of complex substances.
Antonyms
- Anabolism: The metabolic synthesis of complex molecules from simpler ones, requiring energy.
Noun
-
breakdown in living organisms of more complex substances into simpler ones together with release of energy
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