ANAEROBIC METABOLISM Meaning and
Definition
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Anaerobic metabolism refers to the process of energy production by cells in the absence of oxygen. It is a form of cellular respiration that occurs when the oxygen supply is limited or completely absent. This type of metabolism plays a crucial role in various biological activities and is characterized by the breakdown of glucose without the involvement of oxygen.
During anaerobic metabolism, glucose is broken down into pyruvate through a process called glycolysis. Unlike in aerobic metabolism, where pyruvate is subsequently converted into carbon dioxide and water, in anaerobic metabolism, pyruvate is converted into other substances. In animals, pyruvate is converted into lactic acid, while in plants and microorganisms, pyruvate is converted into ethanol or other products.
Anaerobic metabolism is relatively less efficient in energy production compared to aerobic metabolism. Glycolysis produces a small amount of ATP, which is the main energy currency in cells, by directly phosphorylating ADP. While the energy yield from anaerobic metabolism is significantly lower, it provides a rapid way for cells to generate energy when oxygen availability is limited, such as during intense physical exercise or in environments with low oxygen levels.
Overall, anaerobic metabolism is an essential metabolic process that allows cells to continue functioning even when oxygen is scarce or unavailable, ensuring the provision of energy needed for immediate tasks.
Etymology of ANAEROBIC METABOLISM
The word "anaerobic" originates from the Greek prefix "an-" meaning without, and the Greek word "aéros" meaning air. The term was first coined in the mid-19th century by French chemist Louis Pasteur to describe processes that occur without the use of oxygen.
The word "metabolism" comes from the Greek term "metabolḗ" meaning change, and the suffix "-ism" that indicates a process or condition. Thus, "metabolism" refers to the chemical processes that take place within an organism to sustain life.
Therefore, "anaerobic metabolism" refers to the metabolic processes that occur in the absence of oxygen. It describes the biochemical pathways that generate energy and produce metabolites in cells without utilizing oxygen as the final electron acceptor in the electron transport chain.
