Metabolon is a scientific term used to describe a complex of enzymes in a metabolic pathway. The IPA phonetic transcription of this word is /məˈtæbəlɒn/, which is spelled as "muh-tab-uh-lon". The first syllable "muh" is pronounced with a short vowel sound, and the consonant "b" in the second syllable is pronounced with a hard sound. The last syllable "lon" sounds like "lawn", with a rounded "o" and a soft "n". Proper spelling and pronunciation of this word are critical for scientific accuracy and communication.
Metabolon is a term used in biology and biochemistry to describe a dynamic and interconnected network of metabolic reactions and pathways within a living organism or cell. It refers to the collective sum of all the chemical reactions that occur within a specific cellular compartment or an entire organism, which are crucial for the maintenance of life and energy production.
A metabolon can be composed of enzymes, coenzymes, substrates, and products involved in a specific metabolic pathway or set of interconnected pathways. These components work together in close proximity and in precise coordination, enhancing the efficiency and regulation of metabolic reactions.
The concept of a metabolon emphasizes the spatial and temporal organization of metabolic processes, highlighting the importance of proximity and efficient channeling of metabolites within specific subcellular compartments or organized enzyme complexes. This spatial arrangement allows for better regulation and control of metabolic flux, as well as the efficient transfer of intermediates between interconnected pathways.
Metabolons play a crucial role in maintaining cellular homeostasis, energy balance, and the synthesis or breakdown of biomolecules such as carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins. They also contribute to the generation of energy-rich molecules like ATP, which is essential for various cellular functions.
Understanding the structure and regulation of metabolons is important for studying metabolic diseases, designing metabolic engineering strategies, and discovering potential therapeutic targets.
A particle, having only a temporary existence in its present form, produced during the disintegration of a radioactive substance.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "metabolon" has its roots in the Greek language. It is derived from the Greek word "metabolē" (μεταβολή), which means "change" or "alteration". In Greek, "metabolē" is associated with various meanings related to transformation or conversion, particularly in the context of biological processes. The suffix "-on" is commonly used in scientific terminology to denote a particular action or process. Therefore, "metabolon" can be understood as referring to a specific metabolic action or process.