Enzymes and Chemical Reactions in Cells

Overview

• Chemical reactions in cells often do not occur spontaneously.
• Cells use proteins known as enzymes to initiate and accelerate chemical reactions.
• Enzymes help cells efficiently utilize energy sources.

Function of Enzymes

• Enzymes have a specific method to initiate reactions:
  • They bind to specific molecules called reactants or substrates.
  • Binding occurs at the active site on the enzyme.

Process of Enzyme Action

1. Enzyme-Substrate Complex Formation

   • Substrates bind to the active site of the enzyme, forming the enzyme-substrate complex.

2. Chemical Reaction

   • The enzyme and substrates react, weakening some chemical bonds in the substrates.
   • This leads to the substrates linking together.

3. Formation of Product

   • Chemical reactions at the active site result in the formation of a new molecule, the product.

4. Release and Reusability of Enzyme

   • The product is released from the active site.
   • The enzyme returns to its original state, ready to react with new substrates.