Page "Chemical reaction" Paragraph 124

The biochemical reactions that occur in living organisms are collectively known as metabolism.

Among the most important of its mechanisms is the anabolism, in which different DNA and enzyme-controlled processes result in the production of large molecules such as proteins and carbohydrates from smaller units.

Bioenergetics studies the sources of energy for such reactions.

An important energy source is glucose, which can be produced by plants via photosynthesis or assimilated from food.

All organisms use this energy to produce adenosine triphosphate ( ATP ), which can then be used to energize other reactions.