Biosynthesis (also called
biogenesis or
anabolism) is a multi-step,
enzyme-catalyzed process where
substrates are converted into more complex
products in living organisms. In biosynthesis, simple
compounds are modified, converted into other compounds, or joined together to form
macromolecules. This process often consists of
metabolic pathways. Some of these biosynthetic pathways are located within a single cellular
organelle, while others involve enzymes that are located within multiple cellular organelles. Examples of these biosynthetic pathways include the production of
lipid membrane components and
nucleotides.