Biology Review - Enzymes and Microbial Control

Vocabulary flashcards focusing on enzyme functionality, protein structural hierarchy, biochemical models, and disease-related microbial concepts from the EAES/ESSLCE biology transcript.

Enzymes

Biological catalysts that allow biochemical reactions in cells to take place quickly.

Secondary protein structure

A polypeptide folded into $\alpha$-helix and $\beta$-sheet, stabilized by hydrogen bonds.

Primary protein structure

The structural level of a protein defined by amino acid sequences and peptide bonds.

Quaternary protein structure

A multi-subunit complex consisting of multiple folded protein subunits and sometimes a haem group.

Tertiary protein structure

The overall 3-D shape of a protein determined by side chain interactions of amino acids.

Induced-fit model

An explanation of enzyme specificity where the enzyme changes the shape of the active site slightly to fit substrates precisely.

Competitive inhibitor

A molecule that binds with an enzyme at the active site, preventing the substrate from binding.

Allosteric activator

A molecule that binds to the regulatory site of an enzyme to activate the reaction.

Sleeping sickness

A disease transmitted by the biting of tsetse flies.

Microorganisms

Diverse life forms possessing abundant benefits that are essential for life on Earth.

Incineration

A method of controlling microbial infection, such as that caused by a needle used on a person with HIV/AIDS, by burning the contaminated material.