Chapter 8.5, Problem 1R

Summary Introduction

To review:

About the feedback inhibition and the mechanism by which the figure 1 fits into the systems diagram, shown in figure 2.

Given:

The feedback inhibition mechanism of a metabolic pathway is represented in the form of a diagram as follows:

The systems diagram representing different pathways and their intersections is represented in figure 2.

A metabolic pathway catalyzed by an enzyme is represented by each line.

Each node represents a metabolite (small molecule).

Several metabolic pathways and metabolites intersect and overlap each other.

Figure 2: A systems diagram representing complex interactions of several metabolic pathways, their points or intersection and overlap, which takes place inside the human body.

Introduction:

A feedback is the mechanism utilized by the end product of a reaction sends feedback about the continuity of reaction. It is the mechanism by which hormone in the blood/body is maintained. The mechanism can be positive or negative. The positive feedback mechanism consists of cycles when end product of a reaction sends feedback about continuity of reaction. For example, release of oxytocin hormone during childbirth. The negative feedback mechanism consists of cycles when end product of a reaction sends feedback about inhibition of reaction. For example, in case of insulin, hormone is used in regulation of glucose.