» For the related metabolic process, see anabolism. Catabolism (Greek kata = downward + ballein = "to throw")'s the set of metabolic pathways that break down molecules into smaller units and release energy. In catabolism, large molecules such as polysaccharides, lipids, nucleic acids and proteins are broken down into smaller units such as monosaccharides, fatty acids, nucleotides and amino acids, respectively. As molecules such as polysaccharides, proteins and nucleic acids are made from long c… (More on Catabolism)