Enzyme Function and Inhibition

These flashcards cover key concepts and terminologies related to enzyme function and inhibition, reinforcing understanding and aiding in exam preparation.

Enzyme

A protein that acts as a catalyst, speeding up chemical reactions without being changed or used up.

Activation Energy

The energy needed to start a chemical reaction.

Substrate

The molecule upon which an enzyme acts.

Enzyme-Substrate Complex

The temporary complex formed when a substrate binds to an enzyme's active site.

Induced Fit

The phenomenon where the enzyme changes shape to bind more tightly to the substrate.

Competitive Inhibition

A type of inhibition where an inhibitor binds to the active site of an enzyme, preventing substrate binding.

Non-Competitive Inhibition

An inhibition where an inhibitor binds to a secondary site on the enzyme, altering its shape and preventing substrate binding.

Cofactor

An inorganic ion that temporarily binds to an enzyme to promote a chemical reaction.

Coenzyme

An organic molecule that temporarily binds to an enzyme and aids in the chemical reaction.

Vmax

The maximal rate of reaction when the enzyme is saturated with substrate.

pH Optimum

The specific pH at which an enzyme functions most effectively; for pepsin, this is around pH 2.0.

Temperature Effect on Enzymes

Enzyme function is sensitive to temperature; extreme temperatures can denature the enzyme, affecting its activity.

Inhibitor

A chemical molecule that binds to an enzyme and slows down or prevents the chemical reaction.

Prosthetic Groups

Small molecules permanently attached to an enzyme that aid in its function.

Transition State

An unstable, high-energy state that reactants must pass through to convert into products.

Enzyme Specificity

The ability of an enzyme to choose exact substrate from a group of similar chemical molecules.