Cells seek a balance in molecular energy through catabolism and anabolism. The energy released by catabolic pathways is used to make high-energy molecules that drive anabolic pathways. A key regulating mechanism for these pathways is allosteric control.

Catabolism and Anabolism Balance

Enzymes break down carbohydrates such as glycogen, starch, and cellulose to break glycosidic linkages and release glucose monomers, the latter of which is used for further catabolism. The break down of materials during catabolism releases products necessary for cellular metabolism.

Carbohydrate catabolism

Enzymes break down lipids such as triglycerides and phospholipids to release glycerol and fatty acid chains, which can be further degraded into molecules to be used for respiration.

Lipid catabolism

Enzymes break down proteins such to release peptides for cellular uptake. Cells then are able to further breakdown amino acids into molecules that can be used in pyruvate oxidation and the citric acid cycle.

Protein catabolism

Exergonic metabolism pathways involved in the breakdown of complex molecules into simpler ones

University of Notre Dame

Types of metabolic pathways include:
- Exergonic reactions
- Endergonic reactions
- Anabolism
- Catabolism

Types of Metabolic Pathways

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A chemical reaction seen within a metabolic pathway that is spontaneous and releases energy

Exergonic Reaction

A chemical reaction seen within a metabolic pathway that requires energy to proceed

Endergonic Reaction

Endergonic metabolism pathways involved in the building of simpler molecules into complex ones (biosynthesis) using cellular energy

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