Metabolic pathways are said to operate in a steady state. Which process does NOT contribute to this?
A) Most biological reactions are reversible under normal cellular conditions.
B) Key reactions at the beginning and end of a pathway are often regulated synchronously.
C) Catabolic pathways are active when cellular energy levels are low.
D) Reversible reactions proceed to equilibrium.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Catabolic pathways being active when cellular energy levels are low does not contribute to the steady state of metabolic pathways. Instead, it helps to maintain and restore the energy balance within the cell. The steady state is maintained by the other three processes listed - reversible reactions, synchronous regulation at the beginning and end of a pathway, and reversible reactions proceeding to equilibrium.

Metabolic Pathways Are Said to Operate in a Steady State