Metabolic pathways

Metabolic pathways represent intricate systems of biochemical reactions that occur sequentially within cells, fulfilling essential functions for life. These sequences of reactions are designed to carry out various biological processes, such as the synthesis of important molecules, the degradation of nutrients, and the generation of energy. The activity of these pathways is mediated by enzymes, which act as catalysts to accelerate the transformation of substrates into final products.

These pathways are closely interconnected, meaning that the products of one pathway can serve as substrates for others, creating a complex metabolic network within the cell. From an energetic perspective, metabolic pathways can be classified as anabolic, catabolic, and amphibolic, depending on whether they require energy to build complex molecules, release energy by breaking down simpler molecules, or combine both functions in a single pathway.

This section includes intermediate and final compounds from the main metabolic pathways.