The present book chapter highlights the comprehensive epitome of
metabolism, explaining the regulatory and intricate mechanisms involved. It
commences with the introduction which encompasses drug metabolism pathways,
enumerating linear, cyclic, and branched pathways then delves into the catabolic and
anabolic pathways. The catabolic pathways explore glycolysis and the Krebs cycle, and
anabolic pathways involve gluconeogenesis, protein synthesis, and lipogenesis. The
further section overshadows discussion on energy in metabolism. This segment of the
chapter discusses ATP as the energy currency, highlighting its structure, functions, and
ATP hydrolysis. Further, it emphasizes energy transfer mechanisms that involve redox
reactions. The other segments of the chapter cover the role of enzymes in metabolism,
explaining catalytic functions and specificity. Afterward, enzyme regulation involves
allosteric regulation and feedback inhibition. Finally, the book chapter delves the
metabolism regulation, focusing on hormonal regulation, nutrient availability, and
genetic-epigenetic regulation. Examining these various aspects, it is quite clear that the
chapter provides a framework for understanding the complex nature of metabolism
and its vital role in health and disease
Keywords: Absorption, Acetylation, Active medications, Anabolic pathways, Catabolic pathways, Coupling reactions, Drug-metabolizing enzymes, Ecotoxicology, Elimination, Energy in metabolism, Enzymes in metabolism, Lipophilic molecules, Metabolism regulation, Metabolism, Pharmacodynamics, Pharmacokinetics, Phosphorylation, Prodrugs, Transformation, Xenobiotic.
