Metabolites and their types MCQ - Practice Questions with Answers

Primary and Secondary Metabolites

• The term metabolite applies to a small molecule which is either an intermediate or product of metabolism.
• Primary metabolites are organic compounds that are directly involved in the development process of an organism.
• They are found in all animals and plants cells.
• They play roles in the physiological processes.
• For example, amino acids, sugars etc. are primary examples
• Secondary metabolites basically occur in fungal, plant and microbial cells. 
• They are not directly involved in metabolic activities and perform assistive functions.
• For example, alkaloids prevent the parasitic attack, flavonoids attract pollinators,  involved in UV filtration, symbiotic nitrogen fixation and floral pigmentation. 
• Other examples include oils, rubber, gums, latex etc.