Metabolism and the problem of its universalization

Biological systems are often studied through their metabolic processes. Traditional views see metabolism as either a closed production network or an energy flow manager. Recent theories connect autonomy with thermodynamic principles. These ideas suggest a deeper relationship between biological systems and their energy dynamics. Prior research has shown that metabolic systems maintain internal control over energy. However, the exact nature of this control remains unclear. This gap motivated a reevaluation of how metabolism is defined. No prior work had resolved the universal definition of metabolism.

This study aims to redefine metabolism using thermodynamic principles. The authors propose a universal definition of metabolism. They argue that metabolism involves recursive self-maintenance of energy controls. This definition integrates biological and thermodynamic logic. The goal is to clarify how energy flows support system operations. The motivation comes from unresolved questions about metabolic autonomy. The study also critiques artificial life models of metabolism. These models may not reflect real metabolic systems accurately.

The authors use conceptual analysis and theoretical modeling. They integrate ideas from thermodynamics and systems biology. The approach combines philosophical and scientific reasoning. No experimental data is used in this study. The focus is on redefining metabolism through logical consistency. The authors compare real and artificial metabolic systems. They examine differences in causal relations and mechanisms. The method relies on critical evaluation of existing theories.

The study proposes a universal definition of metabolism. It describes metabolism as recursive self-maintenance of energy controls. This definition links biological systems with thermodynamic principles. The authors argue that artificial metabolisms differ structurally from real ones. Computational models use different causal mechanisms. Real metabolisms involve physical energy flows and component production. Artificial systems lack these physical interactions. The results suggest a need for revised definitions of metabolic autonomy.

The authors conclude that metabolism must be defined through thermodynamic logic. They argue that real and artificial metabolisms differ fundamentally. The distinction lies in their causal mechanisms and structure. The study supports a universal definition of metabolism. This definition emphasizes recursive self-maintenance of energy flows. The authors critique computational models of metabolism. These models fail to replicate real metabolic systems. The findings suggest a need for further theoretical refinement.