Secondary metabolism refers to the biochemical processes that occur in living organisms, including plants, fungi, and bacteria, which are not essential for their growth, development, or reproduction. It is also known as specialized or specialized metabolisms. These types of metabolisms involve the production of various biologically active compounds, such as alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids, and polyketides, among others.
Unlike primary metabolism, which includes essential processes such as photosynthesis, respiration, and cell division, secondary metabolism is not universal among all organisms. Instead, it is specific to certain species or cell types and is often induced by environmental stimuli, including stress, competition, or symbiotic relationships.
The primary function of secondary metabolism is not well understood but it is believed to play significant roles in the adaptation and survival of organisms in their environments. These specialized metabolites often possess biological activities such as defense against predators or pathogens, attraction of pollinators or seed dispersers, allelopathy (inhibition of the growth of competing species), or communication within the organism or with other organisms.
Secondary metabolites have been extensively studied for their medicinal, agricultural, and industrial applications. Many drugs, natural pesticides, flavors, fragrances, and pigments are derived from secondary metabolites. Understanding and manipulating secondary metabolism have important implications in fields such as drug discovery, agriculture, and biotechnology.
In conclusion, secondary metabolism refers to non-essential biochemical processes occurring in organisms that produce biologically active compounds with diverse functions, such as defense, communication, and adaptation.
