What are the options for the term of metabolic pathways that use ATP to synthesize complex molecules from smaller components?
Anabolic pathways.
Anabolic pathways are the metabolic pathways that use ATP to synthesize complex molecules from smaller components. This process requires energy input to build larger molecules, such as proteins, nucleic acids, and carbohydrates. Anabolic pathways are essential for growth, repair, and maintenance of cells and tissues in living organisms.
Key Points:
- Anabolic pathways require energy in the form of ATP to build complex molecules.
- These pathways are responsible for the synthesis of biomolecules necessary for cellular structure and function.
- Anabolic reactions often involve the condensation of smaller molecules to form larger, more complex structures.
Examples of Anabolic Pathways:
- Protein synthesis: The process of building proteins from amino acids.
- DNA replication: The synthesis of new DNA strands from existing genetic material.
- Photosynthesis: The transformation of light energy into chemical energy to produce glucose in plants.
In contrast to anabolic pathways, catabolic pathways involve the breakdown of complex molecules into smaller components, releasing energy in the process. Both types of pathways are crucial for maintaining the balance of energy and biomolecules in living organisms.