Metabolic intermediate

Metabolic Intermediate

A Metabolic Intermediate (pronunciation: meh-tuh-bol-ik in-ter-mee-dee-it) is a compound formed in the metabolic pathway between the consumption of food and the production of waste. These intermediates are the stepping stones between the start and end of metabolism.

Etymology

The term "Metabolic Intermediate" is derived from the combination of two words. "Metabolic" comes from the Greek word "metabole" which means change, and "Intermediate" comes from the Latin word "intermedius" which means "in the middle".

Definition

Metabolic intermediates are compounds that are formed and used up during the course of a metabolic pathway. They are not the initial reactants or the final products, but are necessary for the metabolic reactions to proceed. They are often used in multiple reactions, and can be used to regulate the rate of metabolism.

Examples

Some examples of metabolic intermediates include Pyruvate, Acetyl CoA, Citrate, and Oxaloacetate. These intermediates are involved in the Citric Acid Cycle, also known as the Krebs Cycle, which is a key part of cellular respiration.

Related Terms

Metabolism: The chemical processes that occur within a living organism in order to maintain life.
Metabolic Pathway: A series of chemical reactions occurring within a cell.
Enzyme: A substance produced by a living organism which acts as a catalyst to bring about a specific biochemical reaction.
Substrate: A molecule upon which an enzyme acts.