Lecture Notes: Understanding Enzymes

Introduction: Favorite Protein

• Personal anecdote about favorite protein related to childhood game, Pac-Man.
• Pac-Man as a representation of enzymes.

Enzymes as Proteins

• Most enzymes are proteins.
• Analogy: Pac-Man and enzymes have specific shapes.

Active Site

• Active Site: Specifically shaped area where substrates bind.
• Substrates: Items that bind to the active site.
• Binding is specific due to the shape of the active site.

Induced Fit

• After substrates bind, the active site can change shape (induced fit).
• This is compared to an "enzyme-substrate hug."
• Enzymes can either build up or break down substrates, producing products.

Role of Enzymes

• Enzymes speed up chemical reactions that could happen on their own.
• Example: Lactase enzyme.
  • Lactose: A disaccharide sugar that can be difficult to digest.
  • Lactase breaks down lactose into smaller, digestible components.
  • Lactose intolerance: Condition where individuals lack sufficient lactase, leading to digestive issues.
• Enzymes act as catalysts, meaning they are not consumed in the reaction.

Common Digestive Enzymes

• Lipase: Breaks down lipids (fats).
• Amylase: Breaks down starches.
• Protease: Breaks down proteins.

Enzyme Helpers

• Cofactors and Coenzymes: Assist enzymes in their function.
  • Bind to substrates or active sites to help enzymes work effectively.

Ideal Conditions for Enzymes

• Enzymes function best in specific conditions (pH, temperature).
  • Example: Stomach enzymes thrive in acidic conditions.
• Extreme changes can lead to denaturation, distorting the enzyme's shape and function.

Conclusion

• Importance of enzymes in regulating body processes.
• Many diseases are related to enzyme production or lack thereof.
• Encouragement to stay curious about enzymes and their functions.