Discuss “The respiratory pathway is an amphibolic pathway
Explanation Glucose is the most common respiratory substrate in the body. However other molecules such as fatty acids and proteins are also used as respiratory substrate to derive energy. Unlike glucose these proteins and fatty acids cannot enter the respiratory pathway directly. Before entering the respiratory pathway, these large molecules are broken down into simpler substance that might enter the TCA cycle at some point. When required, these molecules can be pulled out from the respiratory pathway and can be used to synthesise protein and fatty acids. From the above discussion, it is clear that respiratory pathway involves both breakdown and synthesis of respiratory substrates. Hence it is considered as the amphibolic pathway. Final Answer Respiratory pathways not only involve catabolism but also anabolism. Different respiratory substrates obtained from carbohydrates, fats and proteins enter the pathway and breakdown to produce ATP. At the same time, certain intermediates of respiratory pathways are used as raw materials for synthesis of substances. Such anabolism and catabolism makes respiratory pathway an amphibolic pathway.
