Anabolism and catabolism are two different metabolic methods, which collectively constitute the entire metabolism process. Anabolism represents a series of reactions that produces the biomolecules a human body needs to function properly. The two types of biological reactions that make up metabolism are anabolism and catabolism. Catabolism splits huge molecules into smaller molecules, whereas anabolism generates complex molecules from simpler ones. On the other hand, catabolism is involved in breaking down complex molecules like proteins, glycogen, etc. into simple molecules. It also breaks down monomers like amino acids, fatty acids, and glucose.
The majority of people associate metabolism with weight reduction and bodybuilding, although metabolic pathways are vital for every cell and tissue in the body. A cell’s metabolism is the process by which it obtains energy and eliminates waste. Vitamins, minerals, and cofactors help the reactions to take place.
()
What is Anabolism?
Anabolism is a series of biochemical reactions that synthesize molecules from smaller components. These are endergonic reactions, which means they are not spontaneous. They require energy to progress. The hydrolysis of ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate) powers several anabolic reactions. Generally, condensation and reduction are the mechanisms responsible for anabolism.
Anabolic hormones cause anabolic processes to occur. Insulin, which facilitates glucose absorption, and anabolic steroids, which enhance muscular growth, are examples of anabolic hormones. Anabolic activity is an anaerobic exercise that also produces muscle strength and mass, such as weightlifting.
()
What is Catabolism?
It is also a series of biochemical reactions that breaks down complex molecules into simple ones. Additionally, this process is spontaneous and thermodynamically favourable. Thus, human body cells use this process to generate energy for anabolism.
Additionally, catabolism is exergonic. It works through hydrolysis and oxidation, releasing heat in the process. Many hormones operate as catabolism-controlling signals. Adrenaline, glucagon, cortisol, melatonin, hypocretin, and cytokines are all catabolic hormones. Catabolic exercise is an aerobic activity, such as a cardio workout, that burns calories by breaking down fat (or muscle).
Cells often store various complex molecules and raw materials. Catabolism breaks these down to create new products. For instance, the catabolism of polysaccharides, nucleic acids, and protein generates monosaccharides, nucleotides, and amino acids, respectively.
()
Examples of Anabolism and Catabolism
Examples of Anabolism are –
-
Fatty acid and glycerol react to produce a fatty acid.
-
Amino acids join together to prepare dipeptides.
-
Simple sugars combine to synthesize water and disaccharides.
-
Water and carbon dioxide react to produce glucose and oxygen for photosynthesis.
Examples of Catabolism are –
-
Oxygen and glucose react during cellular respiration to yield water and carbon dioxide.
-
With the help of catabolism, hydroxide peroxide decomposes within cells to form water and oxygen.
()
Difference between Anabolism and Catabolism
|
Anabolism |
Catabolism |
|
|
Definition |
Anabolism is the metabolic process that transforms simple substances into complex molecules. |
Catabolism is where complex and large molecules are broken down into small ones. |
|
Role in Metabolism |
Anabolism is the constructive one. |
Catabolism is the destructive phase of metabolism. |
|
Energy and Heat Requirement |
Anabolism is an endergonic reaction. It means this reaction requires ATP energy as it absorbs heat. |
Catabolism being an exergonic reaction releases ATP energy and does not require any heat. |
|
Hormones Responsible |
The hormones responsible for anabolism are estrogen, testosterone, insulin, etc. |
Hormones accountable for catabolism are adrenalin, cortisol, cytokines, etc. |
|
Oxygen Utilisation |
Anabolism does not use oxygen |
Catabolism does use Oxygen. |
|
Energy Conversion |
In the case of anabolism, kinetic energy is converted to potential energy. |
Catabolism, the energy conversion is precisely the opposite. |
|
Functionality |
Catabolism is functional during activities |
Anabolism is functional during rest or sleep. |
|
Effect on the Human Body |
Anabolism repairs and furnishes tissues and subsequently increases muscle mass. |
Catabolism burns calories and fats. Additionally, it uses the foods stored within cells to generate energy. |
|
Examples |
Gluconeogenesis. |
Glycolysis, the citric acid cycle |
In order to define anabolism and catabolism, it can be men
tioned that these two contrasting functions are essential for a human being to survive. These two constitute metabolism which ensures growth, reproduction and allows every living organism to sustain.