Metabolism is a set of chemical changes that keep living organisms growing, functioning, multiplying, and interacting with the environment

Metabolism is a set of chemical changes that keep living organisms growing, functioning, multiplying, and interacting with the environment. As a result of metabolism, the molecules that make up the cell are broken down and synthesized, and cell structures and intercellular substances are formed, broken down, and renewed. In fact, in humans, half of all tissue proteins are broken down and re-formed in about 80 days; Half of the liver and serum proteins are renewed every 10 days, muscle proteins 180 days, and some liver enzymes every 2-4 hours. Metabolism is closely linked to energy metabolism and is inseparable. Metabolism and energy exchange in cells take place in the presence of biological catalysts - enzymes. Potential energy, which exists in the form of chemical bonds in complex organic molecules, is converted into energy for chemical structure and function, body temperature maintenance, function, and other processes. Metabolism consists of two simultaneous and interrelated processes in the cell - anabolism and catabolism. In catabolic processes, complex molecules break down into simpler molecules, releasing large amounts of energy. This energy is stored in the form of macroergic bonds rich in specific chemical energy, mainly in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATF) and other molecules. Catabolic changes usually occur as a result of hydrolytic and oxidative reactions. These reactions take place without oxygen (anaerobic pathway - glycolysis, fermentation) and in the presence of oxygen (aerobic pathway - respiration). The second method is much younger and more energy efficient from an evolutionary point of view, in which organic matter is completely broken down into SO2 and water.