Metabolism and Energy Production

Flashcards covering fundamental aspects of metabolism, energy production, and related concepts.

Metabolism

The sum of all chemical reactions in the body.

Catabolism

The breakdown of molecules that releases energy used to make ATP.

Anabolism

The building or synthesis of molecules that requires energy (ATP).

Glycolysis

The process that occurs in the cytoplasm, breaking glucose into 2 pyruvate and yielding a net gain of 2 ATP.

Aerobic metabolism

Occurs in mitochondria and produces approximately 30-32 ATP per glucose.

Citric Acid Cycle (Krebs Cycle)

Produces electron carriers (NADH, FADH₂) and only makes 2 ATP total.

Oxidative Phosphorylation

The process of ATP production using electrons from NADH and FADH₂, producing over 90% of the body's ATP.

Coenzymes

Molecules like NADH and FADH₂ that carry hydrogen ions and electrons from the Citric Acid Cycle to electron transport chain.

Cytochromes

Protein-pigment molecules in the electron transport chain that pass electrons from one carrier to another.

Lipolysis

The breakdown of fats into fatty acids used for energy.

Lipogenesis

The formation of fat from excess nutrients.

Absorptive State

The fed state right after eating when nutrients are entering the bloodstream and energy is stored.

Postabsorptive State

The fasting state between meals when the body uses stored energy.

Fat-Soluble Vitamins

Vitamins A, D, E, K that are stored in fat and not easily excreted, which can lead to toxicity.

Short-term Appetite Regulation

Controlled by signals from the digestive tract and hormones like ghrelin and leptin.

Heat Transfer Mechanisms

Includes radiation, conduction, convection, and evaporation.

Diabetes Mellitus

A metabolic disorder characterized by a problem with insulin and high blood sugar.

Obesity

A condition characterized by excess fat storage.

Hyperthyroidism

A metabolic disorder marked by high metabolism.

Hypothyroidism

A metabolic disorder characterized by low metabolism.

Malnutrition

A lack of nutrients necessary for health.