Role of Enzymes in Biochemical Reactions
- Enzymes are special proteins that act as biological catalysts.
- They speed up biochemical reactions without being used up.
How Enzymes Work
- Substrate Binding
- The molecule that reacts (substrate) fits into the active site of the enzyme, like a key in a lock.
- Lowering Activation Energy
- Enzymes reduce the energy needed for the reaction to occur, making it faster.
- Formation of Product
- The substrate is converted into the product.
- Product Release
- The product leaves the enzyme, and the enzyme is free to catalyze another reaction.
Why Enzymes are Important
- Speed Up Reactions
- Reactions in the body would be too slow without enzymes.
- Specificity
- Each enzyme works on a specific substrate, ensuring precise control.
- Regulation
- Enzyme activity can be turned on or off depending on the cell’s needs.
- Essential for Life Processes
- Digestion, energy production, DNA replication, and cell signaling all depend on enzymes.
In short:
Enzymes speed up biochemical reactions, lower the energy needed, and ensure reactions happen efficiently and specifically in living organisms.