Metabolite: meaning, definitions and examples
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metabolite
[ məˈtæbəˌlaɪt ]
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
Etymology
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.
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- 16629 refreshments
- 16630 heiress
- 16631 inestimable
- 16632 metabolite
- 16633 bewildering
- 16634 motorists
- 16635 consenting
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