The part of metabolism that uses energy to build larger or more complex molecules from smaller components.
Anabolic processes are essential for growth, repair, maintenance, and the production of cellular structures and molecules. Examples include the synthesis of proteins from amino acids and the formation of DNA from nucleotides.
Because building complex molecules requires energy, anabolism generally depends on energy supplied by molecules such as ATP.
QUICK FACT
Anabolism does not occur only during growth. Adults continuously perform anabolic processes to replace and repair cells and tissues.
COMMONLY CONFUSED WITH
Catabolism: Anabolism builds molecules and generally requires energy; catabolism breaks molecules down and often releases energy that can be captured for cellular use.
SEE ALSO
- Metabolism
- Catabolism
- ATP
- Protein
- Nucleotide
- Cellular Respiration