Understanding Enzymes and Their Functions

Activation Energy

The energy needed to start a reaction. If the activation energy is high, reactions happen slowly. Enzymes help reduce this energy to speed up reactions in cells.

Catalysts

Substances that speed up reactions without being consumed. Enzymes are biological catalysts, which means they can be reused.

Enzymes

Proteins that catalyze reactions in the body. For example, the enzyme carbonic anhydrase helps convert CO₂ and H₂O into carbonic acid very quickly.

Active Site

The specific area of an enzyme where the substrate (reactant) binds. The active site's shape is specific to the substrate.

Substrate

The molecule that the enzyme acts on. It fits into the active site to form the enzyme-substrate complex.

Induced Fit

When the enzyme adjusts its shape to fit the substrate better, making the reaction more efficient.

Catalytic Cycle

The process where an enzyme binds to a substrate, speeds up the reaction, and releases the product. The enzyme can then be used again.

Breaking Bonds

Enzymes can stretch or bend bonds in the substrate, making them easier to break.

Correct Positioning

Enzymes bring substrates into the correct position for the reaction.

Electron Transfer

Enzymes can transfer electrons to or from the substrate (oxidation/reduction).

Adding/Removing Hydrogen Ions

Some enzymes act as acids or bases, helping to make reactions more likely.

Coenzymes

Organic molecules (like vitamins) that assist enzymes.

Cofactors

Metal ions (like zinc or iron) that are required for enzyme activity.

Food Industry

Enzymes help in the production of cheese, improve flavors, break down gluten, and more.

Pharmaceutical Industry

Enzymes are used to treat diseases like pancreatitis or to make medicines like penicillin.

Hydrolases

Enzymes that help break down molecules by adding water (e.g., lactase breaks down lactose).

Key Takeaway: Activation Energy

Enzymes speed up reactions by lowering the activation energy.

Key Takeaway: Specificity

Each enzyme is specific to its substrate.

Key Takeaway: Industrial Importance

Enzymes are crucial in the food and pharmaceutical industries.

Key Takeaway: Enzyme Helpers

Enzymes often need coenzymes or metal ions to work properly.