Enzymes

Summary and Exam Tips for Enzymes

Enzymes, a subtopic of Molecular Biology within the Biology curriculum, are globular proteins that act as biological catalysts by lowering the activation energy of biochemical reactions. These proteins are composed of long chains of amino acids, forming a specific three-dimensional shape. Enzymes are not consumed in reactions and can be reused. They are named after their substrates with the suffix '-ase', such as lipase for lipids. The active site of an enzyme is where the substrate binds, forming an enzyme-substrate complex, which is crucial for catalysis. The Lock and Key Hypothesis and Induced Fit Model describe how substrates interact with enzymes. Enzyme activity is influenced by temperature, pH, and substrate concentration. Optimal conditions vary for different enzymes, and deviations can lead to denaturation, altering the enzyme's active site. Enzymes are widely used in industries, such as brewing, paper production, and biotechnology. Immobilized enzymes are advantageous for industrial applications, offering stability and cost-effectiveness. Experiments can investigate enzyme activity by varying temperature, pH, and substrate concentration, using methods like colorimetry to measure reaction rates.

Exam Tips

• Understand Key Models: Be familiar with the Lock and Key Hypothesis and the Induced Fit Model, as these are fundamental to understanding enzyme-substrate interactions.
• Factors Affecting Enzyme Activity: Remember the impact of temperature, pH, and substrate concentration on enzyme activity. Know the concept of V$_{\text{max}}$ and how it relates to substrate saturation.
• Denaturation: Be able to explain how changes in temperature and pH can lead to enzyme denaturation and its effects on enzyme function.
• Industrial Applications: Highlight the benefits of immobilized enzymes in industry, such as cost savings and increased stability.
• Practical Experiments: Be prepared to describe experimental setups for testing enzyme activity, including the use of colorimetry and the importance of control variables.