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3.2 explain why the removal of wastes is essential for continued metabolic activity
explain why the removal of wastes is essential for continued metabolic activity
- Metabolic wastes, particularly nitrogenous wastes that are the by-products of the breakdown of proteins and nucleic acids, are toxic to cells and must therefore be removed quickly. Nitrogenous wastes have the ability to change the pH of cells and interfere with membrane transport functions and may denature enzymes.
- Metabolic wastes are the product of metabolic reactions. If they are not removed their concentration in the cell increases. This inhibits the reactions that produce them, interfering with normal metabolic activity.