10 Enzymes and Metabolic Reactions

Flashcards covering key concepts and definitions related to enzymes and metabolic reactions.

Exoenzymes

Enzymes that are made by the cell and released outside to catalyze metabolic reactions and break down larger molecules.

Endoenzymes

Enzymes that are made by the cell and function inside the cell to break down large molecules.

Hydrolysis

The process of breaking down a larger molecule into smaller ones by the addition of water.

Denaturation

The process by which an enzyme loses its 3D structure and thus its function due to extreme environmental changes.

Activation Energy

The minimum energy required for a chemical reaction to occur.

Amylase

An exoenzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of starch into glucose monomers.

Lipase

An exoenzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of lipids into glycerol and fatty acids.

Caseinase

An exoenzyme that hydrolyzes the milk protein casein into individual amino acids.

Gelatinase

An exoenzyme that hydrolyzes gelatin protein to release amino acids.

Lock and Key Model

A theory explaining how enzymes bind to their specific substrates.

Induced Fit Model

A newer and more accurate theory explaining how enzymes adjust to fit their substrates upon binding.

Optimal Conditions

The specific environmental conditions (like pH and temperature) under which enzymes remain active.