What defines anabolism?

Anabolism is defined as the metabolic pathway that involves the synthesis of complex molecules from simpler ones. This process is crucial for growth, repair, and maintenance of cells and tissues. It requires energy, often in the form of ATP, to form new bonds and create larger macromolecules such as proteins, nucleic acids, and lipids from their smaller precursors.

Metabolic pathways, especially anabolic pathways, play a vital role in building essential compounds needed by living organisms. The process is fundamental for growth and development, as it allows organisms to create the structural materials necessary for cell function and integrity. By focusing on how simpler substances are transformed into more complex forms, this definition encapsulates the essence of anabolic processes in biochemistry.