Metabolism is an integral part of growth, development and physiological function. Based on their functions, it can be divided into two types: Catabolism and Anabolism.
The main difference between Catabolism and Anabolism is how molecules are used in the body. Anabolism makes the molecules the body needs to make and uses energy in the process. Metabolism, on the other hand, breaks down complex molecules and releases energy that the body can use.
What is Catabolism?
It is referred to as a series of metabolic pathways, involved in the conversion of macromolecules into simpler molecules or monomers.
Complex molecules are broken down into simpler molecules that can be used as building blocks for other molecules that the cell needs to make such as glycogen, proteins, triglycerides and some of these molecules are simply broken down into waste as an alternative to receiving usable energy.
- Citric acid cycle
- Glycolysis
- Lipolysis
- Oxidative deamination
- Muscle tissue breakdown
What Is Anabolism?
Anabolism is a set of enzyme-catalyzed reactions in which nutrients are used to form complex molecules in living cells with moderately simple structures. The process of anabolism is also called biosynthesis.
This process involves the production of cellular components such as proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, which require energy in the form of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), which are energy-rich compounds, these compounds are produced in metabolism and other breakdown processes.
In growing cells, anabolic processes dominate catabolic processes. In immature cells, a balance between the two occurs.
Differences Between Catabolism and Anabolism
| Catabolism | Anabolism |
| Catabolism breaks down big complex molecules into smaller, easier to absorb molecules. | Anabolism builds molecules required for the body’s functionality. |
| The process of catabolism releases energy. | Anabolic processes require energy. |
| Hormones involved in the processes are adrenaline, cytokine, glucagon, and cortisol. | Hormones involved in the process are estrogen, testosterone, growth hormones and insulin. |
| Examples of catabolic processes are proteins becoming amino acids, glycogen breaking down into glucose and triglycerides breaking up into fatty acids. | Examples include the formation of polypeptides from amino acids, glucose forming glycogen and fatty acids forming triglycerides. |
| In catabolism, potential energy is changed into kinetic energy. | In anabolism, kinetic energy is converted into potential energy. |
| It is required to perform different activities in living entities. | It is required for maintenance, growth, and storage. |
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