catabolizes

Catabolizes is the present tense third-person singular form of the verb catabolize. To catabolize is to break down complex molecules into simpler ones, often releasing energy in the process. In cellular metabolism, catabolism contrasts with anabolism, the building up of larger molecules from smaller ones. Catabolic pathways harvest energy stored in chemical bonds to produce ATP, NADH, and other energy carriers, which cells then use for work or to drive anabolic reactions.

Common examples include glycolysis (glucose → pyruvate), beta-oxidation of fatty acids, and proteolysis of proteins into amino acids. Many catabolic reactions occur via hydrolysis or oxidation, and can occur with or without oxygen (fermentation) depending on the organism and tissue.

Regulation: Catabolic activity is influenced by hormones and energy status. In fasting or stress, catabolism increases to supply glucose and energy; insulin tends to inhibit catabolic pathways; glucagon and cortisol promote catabolic processes in liver and muscle.

In physiology and medicine, catabolism is essential for energy production, detoxification, and remodeling of tissues, but excessive catabolism can lead to muscle wasting, organ dysfunction, or cachexia in chronic disease.

The term catabolizes is also used to describe how drugs and toxins are metabolized by the liver, which can involve catabolic transformations.