Question

How do catabolic pathways intersect with anabolic pathways?

Answer 1

Catabolic reactions break down complex molecules to simple molecules. They serve to capture chemical energy in the form of ATP from the degradation of energy-rich fuel molecules. Anabolic reactions combine small molecules to form complex molecules. They are endergonic reactions which requires the breakdown of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) to adenosine diphosphate (ADP) and inorganic phosphate (Pi)

Catabolic pathways intersect with anabolic pathways in that the anabolic pathway synthesizes complex organic molecules using the energy derived from catabolic pathways (energy coupling).