Energy metabolism

Definition

Energy metabolism is the set of biochemical processes by which cells convert nutrients into energy. This energy is essential for all physiological functions, including brain activity and neurological health.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Energy metabolism involves key pathways like glycolysis, the citric acid cycle, and oxidative phosphorylation.
2. The brain relies heavily on glucose for its energy needs, making carbohydrate metabolism crucial for neurological health.
3. Mitochondrial dysfunction can impair energy metabolism and is linked to various chronic neurological illnesses such as Alzheimer's disease.
4. Nutrients like B vitamins and magnesium play critical roles in enzyme functions that drive energy metabolism.
5. Ketogenic diets are sometimes used to manage epilepsy by altering energy metabolism pathways in the brain.

Review Questions

• What are the primary metabolic pathways involved in energy production?
• Why is glucose particularly important for brain function?
• How does mitochondrial dysfunction affect neurological health?

Related terms

Glycolysis: one sentence definition

Citric Acid Cycle: one sentence definition

Oxidative Phosphorylation: one sentence definition