What are some types of biological pathways?
There are many types of biological pathways. Some of the most common are involved in metabolism, the regulation of genes and the transmission of signals. Metabolic pathways make possible the chemical reactions that occur in our bodies. An example of a metabolic pathway is the process by which your cells break down food into energy molecules that can be stored for later use. Other metabolic pathways actually help to build molecules. Gene regulation pathways turn genes on and off. Such action is vital because genes produce proteins, which are the key components needed to carry out nearly every task in our bodies. Proteins make up our muscles and organs, help our bodies move and defend us against germs. Signal transduction pathways move a signal from a cell’s exterior to its interior. Different cells are able to receive specific signals through structures on their surface, called receptors. After interacting with a receptor, the signal travels through the cell where its message is transmi