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Cellular Respiration

Meaning

The fundamental metabolic pathway occurring within cells, primarily in the mitochondria, that converts biochemical energy from nutrients into adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the primary energy currency of the cell. This process involves a sequence of reactions including glycolysis, the Krebs cycle, and oxidative phosphorylation. Efficient cellular respiration is essential for all physiological functions, from muscle contraction to hormone synthesis and cellular repair.