Nitrogen Metabolism

Nitrogen metabolism involves the processes by which organisms convert nitrogen into forms they can use, primarily for building proteins and other essential molecules. In humans, dietary proteins are broken down into amino acids, which supply nitrogen needed for tissue growth and repair. The body primarily eliminates excess nitrogen as urea through the kidneys. In plants, nitrogen is absorbed from the soil as nitrates or ammonium, then transformed into amino acids and nucleotides for growth. Overall, nitrogen metabolism balances the intake, utilization, and excretion of nitrogen to maintain metabolic health and support biological functions.