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Primary and secondary metabolites explain with examples?is uracil is a secondary metabolite?

Metabolites are compounds synthesized by plants for both essential functions, such as growth and development (primary metabolites), and specific functions, such as pollinator attraction or defense against herbivory (secondary metabolites).

Metabolites are organic compounds synthesized by organisms using enzyme-mediated chemical reactions called metabolic pathways. Primary metabolites have functions that are essential to growth and development and are therefore present in all plants. In contrast, secondary metabolites are variously distributed in the plant kingdom, and their functions are specific to the plants in which they are found. 

Secondary metabolites are often colored, fragrant, or flavorful compounds, and they typically mediate the interaction of plants with other organisms. Such interactions include those of plant-pollinator, plant-pathogen, and plant-herbivore.

Examples of primary metabolites include energy rich fuel molecules, such as sucrose and starch, structural components such as cellulose.

Secondary metabolites largely fall into three classes of compounds: alkaloids, terpenoids, and phenolics.Vincristine and vinblastine from the periwinkle plant are inhibitors of cell division and are used to treat cancers of the blood and lymphatic systems. Quinine from the bark of the cinchona tree.

Uracil is a common and naturally occurring pyrimidine derivative. It is a secondary metabolite.


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