Term: metabolism
https://doi.org/10.1351/goldbook.M03858

Definition:
The entire physical and chemical processes involved in the maintenance and reproduction of life in which nutrients are broken down to generate energy and to give simpler molecules (catabolism) which by themselves may be used to form more complex molecules (anabolism). In case of heterotrophic organisms, the energy evolving from catabolic processes is made available for use by the organism.

Related Terms:
1) catabolism (http://doi.org/10.1351/goldbook.C00870).
2) anabolism (http://doi.org/10.1351/goldbook.A00314).
3) heterotrophic organisms (http://doi.org/10.1351/goldbook.H02816).

Source: PAC, 1992, 64, 143. 'Glossary for chemists of terms used in biotechnology (IUPAC Recommendations 1992)' on page 160 (https://doi.org/10.1351/pac199264010143)

Citation: 'metabolism' in IUPAC Compendium of Chemical Terminology, 5th ed. International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry; 2025. Online version 5.0.0, 2025. https://doi.org/10.1351/goldbook.M03858

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