Abstract
The occurrence of secondary metabolism is a feature common to all living organisms, but restricted to certain taxa. Intermediary metabolism and its products are reasonably well known, but our knowledge of secondary pathways and metabolites is still very limited. Starting from given precursors from intermediary metabolism, in secondary metabolism the evolution of biochemical pathways can proceed in all directions provided that the metabolites are toxic to the producing organism, at least not at the time of their appearance. The main selection principle during the evolution of organisms which can afford the luxury of a biochemical playground cannot be fast growth and short generation times. A continuous evolution of biochemical pathways in secondary metabolism must occasionally lead to compounds which offer an advantage to the producing organism. The playground of secondary metabolism is probably a very early relic of biochemical evolution.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
