Enzymes and Their Function

Definition

• Enzymes are protein molecules.
• They accelerate chemical reactions within the cell.

Active Site

• A specialized region on the enzyme where activity occurs.
• Works by binding substrates.

Enzyme Mechanism

• Substrates: Molecules that bind to the enzyme.
• Products: The result of the chemical reactions facilitated by the enzyme.
• Enzyme binds substrates at the active site.
• Converts substrates into different products through chemical reactions.
• Products are released, and the enzyme is free to act again.

Lock and Key Model

• The substrate fits into the enzyme like a key into a lock.
• Enzymes typically fit only one substrate due to specificity.

Induced Fit Model

• Active site undergoes slight changes to accommodate the substrate.
• Enzyme changes shape slightly to optimize substrate fit.

Optimal Environmental Conditions

• Enzymes have optimal conditions for maximal activity.
• pH and Temperature: Key factors affecting enzyme efficiency.
• Denaturation: A process where enzymes lose their configuration and slow activity due to changes in shape.

Important Concepts

• The three-dimensional shape of the enzyme is crucial for its activity.
• Conditions less than optimal can lead to denaturation, affecting enzyme functions.