Lecture Notes: Enzymes and Their Functions

Introduction

• Favorite Protein: Enzymes, likened to the game Pac-Man.
• Pac-Man Analogy:
  • Pac-Man character resembles enzymes.
  • Enzymes function like Pac-Man collecting pebbles (substrates).

Enzyme Basics

• Definition: Most enzymes are proteins that speed up chemical reactions.
• Active Site: Specific area on enzyme where substrates bind.
• Substrates: Molecules that bind to enzymes.
• Induced Fit: Active site changes shape to bind substrates perfectly, like a hug.
• Products: Resulting items from enzyme-substrate interaction.
• Catalyst: Enzymes are not consumed in reactions; they can be reused.

Real-Life Example: Lactase

• Enzyme Naming: Often ends with "-ase" (e.g., lactase).
• Lactose: A sugar that ends with "-ose"; disaccharide, hard to digest in full form.
• Function of Lactase: Breaks lactose into digestible parts.
• Lactose Intolerance: Insufficient lactase production leads to digestion issues.

Enzyme Function in Digestion

• Digestive Enzymes:
  • Lipase: Breaks down lipids (fats).
  • Amylase: Breaks down starch.
  • Protease: Breaks down proteins.

Enzyme Helpers

• Cofactors and Coenzymes: Assist enzymes by binding to substrates or active sites.

Ideal Conditions for Enzyme Activity

• Pac-Man Ghost Analogy: Just as ghosts disrupt Pac-Man, non-ideal conditions disrupt enzymes.
• Denaturation:
  • Occurs when enzymes are outside their ideal pH or temperature.
  • Results in distorted shape, loss of function.

Importance of Enzymes

• Medical Research: Focus on enzyme regulation and disease implications.
• Regulation of Body Processes: Enzymes are crucial for maintaining bodily functions.

Conclusion

• Final Note: Enzymes are vital, and understanding them can lead to advancements in medical research.
• Reminder: Stay curious and continue exploring the fascinating world of enzymes.