Enzyme catalysis reaction

Enzyme Catalysis Reaction

Enzyme catalysis refers to the increase in the rate of a biochemical reaction due to the involvement of an enzyme. Enzymes are specialized proteins that function as biological catalysts, accelerating chemical reactions while remaining unchanged at the end of the process.

Mechanism of Enzyme Catalysis

The basic steps in an enzyme-catalyzed reaction include:

1. Substrate Binding: The substrate binds to a specific active site on the enzyme.
2. Formation of Enzyme-Substrate Complex: A temporary complex is formed to facilitate the conversion of substrates into products.
3. Product Formation: The enzyme modifies the substrate to form the product.
4. Enzyme Recovery: The enzyme is released unchanged and ready to catalyze another reaction.

Characteristics of Enzyme Catalysis

• Highly specific to particular substrates.
• Function effectively within moderate ranges of temperature and pH.
• Increase reaction rates significantly, often by a factor of a million or more.
• Show saturation behavior: after a certain concentration, increasing the substrate doesn’t increase reaction speed.

Factors Affecting Enzyme Activity

• Temperature: Enzyme activity increases with temperature to a certain point, after which it denatures.
• pH: Each enzyme has an optimal pH range where it functions best.
• Substrate Concentration: Higher concentration increases rate until saturation is reached.
• Inhibitors: Certain substances can reduce or completely block enzyme activity.

Examples of Enzyme Catalysis

• Amylase: Breaks down starch into sugars.
• Pepsin: Breaks down proteins in the stomach.
• Catalase: Converts hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen.
• DNA Polymerase: Helps in DNA replication.