Metabolism and Energy Production

These flashcards cover key concepts and terms related to metabolism, energy production, and the roles of various enzymes and hormones in biochemical processes.

Mitochondrial DNA

DNA inherited maternally, unlike genomic DNA which comes from both parents.

Catabolism

The process of breaking down larger molecules into smaller ones, typically releasing energy.

Anabolism

The process of synthesizing larger molecules from smaller ones, typically requiring energy.

Amphibolic

Metabolic pathways that involve both catabolic and anabolic reactions.

Oxidative reaction

A reaction that involves the loss of electrons, often associated with the release of energy.

Reductive reaction

A reaction that involves the gain of electrons, often associated with the absorption of energy.

Exergonic

A chemical reaction that releases energy; characterized by a negative change in free energy (ΔG < 0).

Endergonic

A chemical reaction that requires energy input; characterized by a positive change in free energy (ΔG > 0).

Enzymes

Biological catalysts that speed up biochemical reactions by lowering the activation energy.

Redox reactions

Reactions that involve the transfer of electrons between molecules, resulting in oxidation and reduction.

ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate)

The primary energy carrier in cells, providing energy for various metabolic processes.

Glycolysis

The metabolic pathway that converts glucose into pyruvate, generating ATP and NADH.

Citric Acid Cycle (TCA Cycle)

A series of chemical reactions used by all aerobic organisms to generate energy through the oxidation of acetyl-CoA.

Beta-oxidation

The process by which fatty acids are broken down in the mitochondria to generate acetyl-CoA, FADH2, and NADH.

Ketogenesis

The metabolic process by which ketone bodies are produced from acetyl-CoA during periods of low glucose availability.

Lactate fermentation

The conversion of pyruvate to lactate when oxygen is low, allowing glycolysis to continue.

Insulin

A hormone produced by the pancreas that regulates glucose levels in the blood by promoting its uptake in cells.

Glucagon

A hormone produced by the pancreas that raises blood glucose levels by stimulating gluconeogenesis and glycogenolysis.

Epinephrine

A hormone secreted by the adrenal glands in response to stress, increasing energy availability by promoting glycogenolysis.

Leptin

A hormone produced by adipose tissues that regulates energy balance by inhibiting hunger.

Urea Cycle

The primary pathway for the detoxification of ammonia in the body, converting it into urea for excretion.