2.1 Metabolic pathways Flashcards
What is the definition of metabolic pathways?
An integrated series of enzyme controlled reactions
What are the two types of reactions that can occur in a Metabolic Pathway?
Catabolic and anabolic
What is an Anabolic reaction?
The build up of small molecules into complex molecules where energy is required
What is a Catabolic reaction?
The breakdown of complex molecules into smaller one where energy is released
What are the 3 features of metabolic pathways?
Reversible, irreversible steps and alternative routes
What are the 2 components which make up for the cell membrane?
Proteins and phospholipids
State the 3 types of proteins found in the cell membrane
Pore, pump and enzymes
State the function of pore proteins
Pore proteins are a channel which allow specific substances across the membrane
State the function of pump proteins
Pump proteins act as carrier molecules which transort secific ions against the concentration gradient.
State the function of enzymes
Enzymes are biological catalysts that speed the rate of biochemical reactions in the cell
What is activation energy?
Energy is required to break the bonds in reactants to form an unstable compound. This energy is called the activation energy.
State the effect of adding enzymes to a reaction (regarding activation energy) ?
The addition of enzymes lowers the acivation energy needed for the reaction to proceed
State the definition of induced fit
The active site is a flexible structure. When binding, the enzyme and active site change slightly to adjust and make the active site fit closely to the substrate molecule.
What is the effect of induced fit in a reaction?
Induced fit increases the chances of a reaction taking place
State the definition of affinity
The tendency to bind to a molecule
