ATP and Cellular Metabolism

These flashcards cover the key vocabulary and concepts related to ATP and cellular metabolism, providing definitions and explanations to aid in exam preparation.

ATP

Adenosine triphosphate, the energy currency of the cell, composed of three phosphate groups, adenine, and ribose.

Hydrolysis

The process of breaking down ATP into ADP and an inorganic phosphate, releasing energy.

ADP

Adenosine diphosphate, formed when ATP loses one phosphate group.

ATP Synthase

An enzyme that catalyzes the formation of ATP from ADP and inorganic phosphate during cellular respiration.

Energy Currency

Term referring to ATP as it is used by the cell to provide energy for various biochemical processes.

Dephosphorylation

The process of removing a phosphate group from ATP to release energy.

Mitochondria

Organelles known as the powerhouse of the cell, where ATP is synthesized.

Beta-Oxidation

The metabolic process by which fatty acids are broken down in the mitochondria to generate acetyl CoA.

Deamination

The removal of an amino group from an amino acid, allowing entry into metabolic pathways.

Catabolism

Destructive metabolism involving the breakdown of complex molecules to produce energy.

Glycoproteins

Proteins that have carbohydrate molecules attached, functioning in cell recognition and signaling.

Enzymes

Proteins that act as catalysts to accelerate biochemical reactions.

Conjugated Proteins

Proteins that consist of amino acids and a non-protein component, known as a prosthetic group.

Keto Acids

Carboxylic acids that contain a ketone group, formed during the deamination of amino acids.

Fibrous Proteins

Structural proteins that are generally insoluble in water and provide support to cells and organisms.

Globular Proteins

Proteins that exhibit a complex, spherical structure and have various functions, including enzymes and transport.

Phosphorylation

The addition of a phosphate group to a molecule, typically requiring energy.