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Metabolite: meaning, definitions and examples

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metabolite

 

[ məˈtæbəˌlaɪt ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

biochemistry

A metabolite is a substance produced during metabolism. Metabolites can be categorized into primary metabolites, which are directly involved in normal growth, development, and reproduction, and secondary metabolites, which are not essential for those processes but often play key roles in plant defense, signaling, and interaction with the environment.

Synonyms

chemical, compound, product, substance

Examples of usage

  • Glucose is a primary metabolite essential for energy production.
  • Many plants produce secondary metabolites to deter herbivores.
  • The study of metabolites can provide insights into metabolic pathways.
  • Metabolite profiling is used in drug discovery.

Translations

Translations of the word "metabolite" in other languages:

🇵🇹 metabolito

🇮🇳 उपउत्पाद

🇩🇪 Metabolit

🇮🇩 metabolit

🇺🇦 метаболіт

🇵🇱 metabolit

🇯🇵 代謝産物

🇫🇷 métabolite

🇪🇸 metabolito

🇹🇷 metabolit

🇰🇷 대사 산물

🇸🇦 المنتج الأيضي

🇨🇿 metabolit

🇸🇰 metabolit

🇨🇳 代谢产物

🇸🇮 metabolit

🇮🇸 efnaskipti

🇰🇿 метаболит

🇬🇪 მეტაბოლიტი

🇦🇿 metabolit

🇲🇽 metabolito

Word origin

The term 'metabolite' derives from the Greek word 'metabolē', which means 'change' or 'transformation'. The prefix 'meta-' denotes a change, while 'bolē' comes from 'ballein', meaning 'to throw'. This aligns with the concept of metabolism, where substances are transformed in the body's biochemical processes. The modern usage of 'metabolite' emerged in the early 20th century as scientists began to better understand the biochemical processes of living organisms and the importance of various substances produced during these processes. The study of metabolites has become increasingly important in fields like pharmacology, toxicology, and ecological studies, enabling researchers to uncover the complex interactions between organisms and their environments.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,632, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.