Enzymes

Enzymes

1. Are part of the protein group

   • Proteins are made of amino acids

2. Act as biological catalysts

   • Control the speed of all chemical reactions in organisms

3. Anabolism: Reactions that synthesise larger molecules from smaller ones

   • Reactions that break down large molecules into small molecules

4. Enzymes are specific

   • One enzyme catalyses only one specific reaction
     • They all have the ending 'ase'

5. Lock-and-key model

   • The shape of an enzyme in an area known as its active site corresponds to that of a substance it catalyses

6. Factors that affect enzyme activity:

   • Warmer temp= faster reaction. Can denature above 40 degrees.
   • pH: optimum= 7. Can denature if too extreme

7. Co-factors: many enzymes need another molecule to assist

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