Carbohydrate Metabolism Class Notes

METABOLISMMetabolism is defined as the sum of all the chemical reactions that take place in the body. It is derived from a Greek word, metabellein, which means “to change”. It includes the process by which cells use food material to obtain energy, store excess calories for future use and build up various substances. Metabolism also includes both anabolism and catabolismMetabolism serves two important purposes:To release energy from the ingested food material through catabolic degradation and to convert this energy into a form that can be used for cellular work.To transform small organic compounds into macromolecules. This aspect of metabolism also includes transformation of one group of organic compounds into anotherDuring catabolic degradation, the energy inherent in the organic molecules (particularly carbohydrates and lipids) is released. It is then trapped and stored as adenosine triphosphate (ATP). The stored energy can be released from ATP when needed and used to perform cellular work. The major cellular works are:Transport of organic molecules and inorganic ions across the cell membrane Mechanical work, such as muscle contraction Electrical work (e.g. nerve conduction)Ensure fidelity of information transferMetabolic pathways