METABOLITE Meaning and
Definition
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A metabolite refers to any substance that is formed or produced during a metabolic process or chemical reaction within a living organism. Metabolism itself involves chemical reactions that occur within cells, which are responsible for maintaining and sustaining the essential life functions of an organism. In this context, metabolites are the intermediate or end products resulting from these metabolic processes.
Metabolites can take numerous forms, including small molecules such as amino acids, nucleotides, sugars, and fatty acids. They can also include larger molecules such as hormones, vitamins, and enzymes. The formation and presence of specific metabolites are crucial indicators of the metabolic state and overall health of an organism.
Metabolites play various significant roles within an organism, serving as essential building blocks for growth, repair, and reproduction. They also function as signaling molecules that regulate and control various physiological processes, including metabolism itself. Additionally, metabolites can act as energy sources, provide protection against harmful substances or pathogens, and contribute to the elimination of waste products. Furthermore, the levels and types of metabolites within an organism can be affected by environmental factors, diet, disease, or drug intake, making them an important area of study in fields such as biology, medicine, and biochemistry.
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Any product of metabolism, especially of catabolism.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for METABOLITE
Etymology of METABOLITE
The word "metabolite" is derived from two Greek roots: "metabolḗ" and "-ite".
The Greek root "metabolḗ" (μεταβολή) means "change" or "transformation". This root is related to the verb "metabállein" (μεταβάλλειν), which means "to change". In the context of biology and chemistry, "metabolism" refers to the chemical processes within an organism that enable it to sustain life and transform various substances.
The suffix "-ite" is a common suffix in chemistry, derived from the Greek "lithos" (λίθος) meaning "stone". It is used to designate minerals or compounds.
Similar spelling words for METABOLITE
- motability,
- MEDBLD,
- metabolism,
- metabolic,
- Metabola,
- metabolous,
- metabolise,
- metapelet,
- mutability,
- metaplot,
- metabolically,
- metapelite,
- metabolize,
- meatball,
- anti-metabolite.
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