Scientific Sessions

Metabolic pathways are a series of interconnected biochemical reactions that occur within a cell, allowing it to maintain life, grow, and respond to environmental changes. These pathways are categorized into two main types: catabolic and anabolic. Catabolic pathways break down complex molecules like carbohydrates, fats, and proteins into simpler ones, releasing energy in the form of ATP (adenosine triphosphate). For example, glycolysis and the citric acid cycle are catabolic pathways that convert glucose into usable cellular energy. On the other hand, anabolic pathways use energy to synthesize complex molecules from simpler ones, playing a key role in cell growth and repair. Examples include protein synthesis and DNA replication. Enzymes play a crucial role in regulating these pathways, ensuring reactions occur efficiently and at the right time.

Metabolic pathways are tightly regulated by the cell to maintain homeostasis and meet changing energy demands. Factors such as availability of nutrients, hormone levels, and feedback inhibition all influence pathway activity. For instance, insulin promotes glucose uptake and storage by activating anabolic processes, while glucagon stimulates glucose production during fasting states. Additionally, disturbances in metabolic pathways can lead to various diseases such as diabetes, obesity, and metabolic syndrome. Understanding these pathways is fundamental not only in biology and medicine but also in biotechnology and pharmacology, where targeted interventions can optimize health outcomes or enhance industrial processes. Advances in metabolic engineering and systems biology are further expanding our ability to manipulate these pathways for therapeutic and commercial applications.