Lecture Notes: Enzymes and Their Functions

Introduction

• Enzymes are proteins that resemble the game character Pac-Man.
• They have an active site where substrates bind, similar to how Pac-Man eats pebbles.
• Enzymes are catalysts that speed up reactions without being consumed.

Enzyme-Substrate Interaction

• Active Site: Specific area where substrates bind.
  • The fit is specific, and the active site may change shape (induced fit) to bind substrates.
• Products: Result from enzymes building up or breaking down substrates.
• Importance: Enzymes speed up reactions that might happen spontaneously but slowly.

Examples of Enzymes

• Lactase: Breaks down lactose, a disaccharide sugar, into digestible parts.
  • Lactose intolerance occurs when there is insufficient lactase production.
• Other Digestive Enzymes:
  • Lipase: Breaks down lipids (fats).
  • Amylase: Breaks down starch.
  • Protease: Breaks down proteins.

Enzyme Helpers

• Cofactors and Coenzymes:
  • Assist in enzyme function by binding to the substrate or active site.

Enzyme Conditions and Denaturation

• Enzymes require specific pH and temperature conditions.
• Denaturation:
  • Occurs when conditions deviate from the ideal range, distorting the enzyme shape.

Medical Relevance

• Enzymes are crucial in body processes and are a major focus in medical research.
• Diseases often involve enzyme production issues or deficiencies.

Conclusion

• Stay curious about enzymes and their wide-reaching implications in biology and medicine.