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Metabolic Signal Processing

Meaning

The complex, multi-step cellular mechanism by which metabolic cues, such as nutrient availability, energy status, and growth factors, are received, interpreted, and translated into specific physiological responses. This processing involves intricate signaling pathways like the Insulin/IGF-1 axis, mTOR, and AMPK, which act as master regulators of cellular growth, repair, and energy balance. Efficient processing is vital for metabolic flexibility and tissue homeostasis, while impairment contributes directly to insulin resistance and age-related diseases. It is the cellular decision-making system for resource allocation.