Secondary metabolite

Secondary Metabolite

A Secondary Metabolite (pronunciation: /ˈsɛkəndɛri mɛtəˈbaɪlaɪt/) is a type of metabolite that is not directly involved in the normal growth, development, or reproduction of an organism. Unlike primary metabolites, secondary metabolites often have specialized roles in the organism, such as defense mechanisms against predators or pathogens, or communication with other organisms.

Etymology

The term "Secondary Metabolite" is derived from the Latin word "secundarius" meaning "second" and the Greek word "metabole" meaning "change". The term reflects the fact that these substances are often produced during the secondary, or later, stages of an organism's life cycle.

Related Terms

Primary Metabolite: A type of metabolite that is directly involved in normal growth, development, and reproduction. Examples include sugars, amino acids, and nucleic acids.
Metabolism: The set of life-sustaining chemical reactions in organisms. It includes both the synthesis (anabolism) and breakdown (catabolism) of substances.
Metabolite: A substance produced during metabolism. Metabolites can be either primary or secondary.
Biosynthesis: The process by which living organisms produce complex molecules from simpler ones. Secondary metabolites are often produced through biosynthesis.
Phytochemical: A type of secondary metabolite found in plants. Phytochemicals often have beneficial health effects.