Enzyme Activity and Function

These flashcards cover key concepts from the lecture on enzyme activity and function, focusing on mechanisms, inhibitors, and factors affecting enzyme efficiency.

What is the primary function of enzymes?

To make and break bonds in substrates.

What happens to enzyme activity when mutations change the amino acid sequence?

It may change the structure and thus the function of the enzyme.

How is enzyme efficiency measured?

By the percentage of substrate converted to product.

What are the two models of enzyme-substrate interaction discussed?

Lock and key model and induced fit model.

What is denaturation in the context of enzymes?

The process of breaking bonds that hold the enzyme together, resulting in loss of function.

What does optimal temperature refer to for enzyme activity?

The temperature at which an enzyme is most efficient.

What is a competitive inhibitor?

A compound that binds to the active site of an enzyme, blocking substrate access.

Give an example of a competitive inhibitor mentioned in the lecture.

Penicillin, which inhibits the enzyme needed to make peptidoglycan in bacteria.

What is the purpose of the buffering system in cells?

To resist changes in pH.

How does temperature affect enzyme activity?

Extreme temperatures can denature enzymes, resulting in loss of activity.

What occurs when an enzyme is saturated?

All active sites on the enzyme are occupied by substrate, leading to maximum activity.

What is Km in enzyme kinetics?

The substrate concentration at which the reaction velocity is half of Vmax.

What is the Goldilocks principle in the context of enzymes?

There is an optimal range for enzyme and substrate concentration for maximum activity.

How can pH levels affect enzyme function?

Unstable pH can break ionic bonds, leading to denaturation of enzymes.

What is noncompetitive inhibition?

Inhibition that occurs when an inhibitor binds to an enzyme at a site other than the active site, altering its shape.

What is meant by enzyme saturation?

When the active sites of all enzymes are occupied, preventing further substrate binding.

How does high fructose corn syrup affect enzyme and metabolism?

It can lead to excessive glucose production, impacting liver function and overall health.

What should happen to enzyme concentrations relative to substrate concentrations?

There should be a balanced amount of both for optimal enzyme activity.

What are irreversible inhibitors?

Inhibitors that permanently bind to an enzyme, effectively removing it from function.

What happens if an enzyme is denatured?

It becomes nonfunctional and cannot catalyze reactions.

What impact does an unstable ecosystem have on microbial life in terms of enzymes?

Microorganisms are more susceptible to fluctuations that can affect their enzyme activity and survival.