Human Biology: Metabolism and Cellular Functions

Vocabulary flashcards focusing on metabolism, cellular respiration, ATP, protein function, catabolism, and anabolism based on Unit 3 Human Biology lecture notes.

Protein

An essential nutrient required for tissue repair; a diet low in protein can negatively affect wound healing in hospitalized patients.

Metabolism

The total of all chemical reactions that happen in our bodies to keep us alive, converting food into energy and materials for cellular repair, growth, and function.

Catabolism

The part of metabolism responsible for breaking larger molecules down into smaller molecules, releasing energy.

Anabolism

The part of metabolism responsible for building larger molecules from smaller molecules using energy.

Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP)

A molecule that supplies energy for cellular functions throughout the body.

Cellular Metabolism

Chemical processes occurring inside cells, primarily within mitochondria, where nutrients like carbohydrates, fats, and proteins are broken down to produce energy.

Clinical Importance of Cellular Metabolism

Helps healthcare professionals understand how the body responds to food, illness, and medication, support patient recovery, and identify when energy production is compromised.

Mitochondria

The primary cellular organelles where cellular metabolism occurs to break down nutrients and produce energy.

Vital Tasks of Cellular Energy

Essential biological functions supported by energy produced from cellular metabolism, including heartbeat, breathing, and immune defense.

Stages of Cellular Respiration

Processes involved in metabolic energy production, which include glycolysis and pyruvate oxidation.