Introduction to Enzymes

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What is the main function of enzymes?

Enzymes act as catalysts to speed up chemical reactions in the body without being consumed.

How do enzymes affect activation energy in reactions?

Enzymes lower the activation energy required for reactions, making it easier for the reaction to occur.

What is a substrate in enzymatic reactions?

A substrate is a molecule upon which an enzyme acts.

What is meant by enzyme specificity?

Enzyme specificity refers to the ability of an enzyme to select and act on a specific substrate.

What is the active site of an enzyme?

The active site is the region on the enzyme where the substrate binds and the reaction takes place.

What factors can affect enzyme activity?

Factors such as temperature, pH, and substrate concentration can affect enzyme activity.

What happens to an enzyme when it is denatured?

When an enzyme is denatured, its structure is altered, and it loses functionality.

How is enzyme activity measured?

Enzyme activity is often measured by the rate at which substrate is converted to product.

What is meant by 'enzyme-substrate complex'?

It is the intermediate formed when a substrate binds to the active site of an enzyme.

What is an inhibitor in enzyme activity?

An inhibitor is a molecule that decreases enzyme activity by blocking the active site or changing the enzyme's shape.

What is competitive inhibition?

Competitive inhibition occurs when an inhibitor competes with the substrate for binding to the active site of an enzyme.

What is non-competitive inhibition?

Non-competitive inhibition occurs when an inhibitor binds to a site other than the active site, changing the enzyme's shape and activity.

What role do cofactors play in enzymatic reactions?

Cofactors are non-protein molecules that assist enzymes during the catalysis of reactions.

What is the induced-fit model of enzyme action?

The induced-fit model suggests that enzyme active sites are flexible and change shape to fit the substrate more snugly as it binds.

What is the significance of enzyme regulation in the body?

Enzyme regulation is crucial for maintaining homeostasis and allows for control over metabolic pathways.