What is "metabolon"

n. (context biochemistry English) A temporary complex between sequential enzymes of a metabolic pathway

In biochemistry, a metabolon is a temporary structural-functional complex formed between sequential enzymes of a metabolic pathway, held together by non-covalent interactions, and structural elements of the cell such as integral membrane proteins and proteins of the cytoskeleton.

The formation of metabolons allows passing (channelling) the intermediary metabolic product from an enzyme directly as substrate into the active site of the consecutive enzyme of the metabolic pathway. The citric acid cycle is an example of a metabolon which facilitates substrate channeling. During the functioning of metabolons, the amount of water needed to hydrate the enzymes is reduced and enzyme activity is increased.