Page 9 - Lesson Notes - Biomolecules 1

Differences between Nucleoside and Nucleotide

Primary and Secondary Metabolites
A large number of organic biomolecules are present in the cells which are used in
various metabolic reactions of cell. Hence, these compounds are called metabolites.
These are divided into two types
1. Primary Metabolites
These are metabolites which are found in animal tissues. Their functions are easily
indentifiable. They play specific known roles in the normal physiological processes,
e.g., Amino acids, carbohydrates, proteins, nitrogen bases, nucleic acids, etc.
2. Secondary Metabolites
These are metabolites which are generally found in plant, fungal and microbial cells.
These are the products of certain metabolic pathways. Their functions are not
identifiable in host organism and are not yet understood, e.g., Alkaloids, flavonoids,
rubber, essential oils, antibiotics, coloured pigments, scents, gums, spices.
Some Secondary Metabolites