Metabolism Flashcards
What is metabolic rate
energy used per unit of time (kcal per day)
RMR and BMR
Resting metabolic rate (RMR) is energy needed to sustain resting individual
Basal metabolic rate (BMR) is the minimal awake rate of energy expenditure. It differs from RMR as it is measured under specific conditions that will influence MR.
What regulates basal metabolic rate
Basal Metabolic rate is regulated by thyroid hormones T3 and T4
Macromolecules after digestion
Glucose
- Stored as glycogen (glucose molecules joined together)
- Can be converted into amino acids or fat
- Main short term fuel source, oxidized for energy
Fatty Acids
- Stored as fat (triacyl glycerides or TG’s)
- TG’s are 3 fatty acids and a glycerol backbone
- FA can be oxidized for high energy yield
- Cannot be converted into glucose or AAs
Amino Acids
- Stored as protein polymers of AAs
- Not primary energy source except in starvation (GH protection)
- Excessive AAs are converted to glucose, fats or oxidised
Intermediary metabolism
Intermediary metabolism is the degradation and synthesis of carbs, proteins and fats.
What is metabolism
Refers to all chemical reaction within the body cells, provides energy to maintain homeostasis.
Catabolic + anabolic reactions
Catabolic and anabolic reactions
Catabolic reactions - breakdown larger molecules into smaller parts yielding energy
Anabolic - synthesis of larger molecules from smaller constituent parts requiring energy
Energy yield (carbs, fats, proteins)
Energy yield from carbs and proteins is similar while lipids give over double
Key considerations around the liver
- GI capillaries drain into the hepatic portal vein which will lead to the liver. This means that first pass metabolism occurs in the liver
- This is linked closely to pancreatic blood supply so hormones (insulin/glucagon) exert their effects at the liver first
- Liver stores glycogen and can perform glycogenolysis to break this down when required. It can also perform glycogenesis. Release to rest of body.
- The liver can also synthesis new glucose via gluconeogenesis using lactate or AAs
- Can synthesis ketones (energy substrate) via ketogenesis from fatty acids and AAs. This occurs as an ALTERNATIVE energy source from carbs (when they are scarce)
- Synthesis lipids from glucose or AAs via lipogenesis (fatty liver, high carb diet will cause fat storage in liver and can occur in SkM)
What is glycogenesis
Glycogenesis - synthesises glycogen from glucose, occurs when glucose supplies exceed demand for ATP. Requires energy and used glycogen synthase.
What is glycogenolysis
Glycogenolysis - breaks down glycogen to release glucose. Stimulated by low blood glucose. Glycogen phosphorylase.
Key considerations around SkM
- Utilises glucose within cell which differs from liver as it doesn’t go into circulation. This is during fed state and activity
- Lipids used as energy during fasting
- Stores glucose and glycogen which can ONLY be used in muscle cells via glycogenesis and glycogenolysis
Key considerations around Fat
Site of lipid storage (TGs) and release. Also has endocrine function releasing hormones called adipokines to regulate apatite.
Release of glycerol backbone and FAs during starvation. Glycerol used to make new glucose in liver and FA are alternative energy source to glucose
Why does the brain need a constant supply of glucose
Glycogen is not stored in neurons so needs constant supply via blood. Cant convert glycogen to glucose.
Glia cells can store and release but only small amount and at local level
Catabolic and anabolic reactions
Catabolic reactions - breakdown larger molecules into smaller parts yielding energy
Anabolic - synthesis of larger molecules from smaller constituent parts requiring energy