Enzymes Flashcard

Front

What is denaturation in the context of enzymes?

Back

Denaturation is the process where an enzyme loses its three-dimensional structure due to high temperatures or extreme pH, leading to a loss of function.

Front

How do enzymes affect activation energy?

Back

Enzymes catalyze reactions by decreasing the activation energy required for the reaction to occur.

Front

What is allosteric inhibition?

Back

Allosteric inhibition occurs when a molecule binds to an enzyme at a site other than the active site, causing a change in the enzyme's shape and reducing its activity.

Front

What is the active site of an enzyme?

Back

The active site is the specific region on an enzyme where the substrate binds and the reaction takes place.

Front

What is competitive inhibition?

Back

Competitive inhibition occurs when a molecule similar to the substrate competes for binding at the active site, preventing the substrate from binding.

Front

What factors can affect enzyme activity?

Back

Factors include temperature, pH, substrate concentration, and the presence of inhibitors or activators.

Front

What is the role of enzymes in biochemical reactions?

Back

Enzymes act as catalysts to speed up biochemical reactions without being consumed in the process.

Front

What is an enzyme-substrate complex?

Back

An enzyme-substrate complex is formed when a substrate binds to the active site of an enzyme, facilitating the conversion of substrate to product.

Front

What is the difference between an enzyme and a coenzyme?

Back

An enzyme is a protein that catalyzes reactions, while a coenzyme is a non-protein molecule that assists enzymes in their function.

Front

What is the significance of enzyme specificity?

Back

Enzyme specificity refers to the ability of an enzyme to select and catalyze a specific substrate, ensuring that biochemical reactions occur correctly.