Basic Knowledge Flashcards
What type of protein are enzymes?
Globular proteins
What type of structure do enzymes have? Can you give details of this.
They have a tertiary structure - a highly folded 3D shape
What is the relative size of enzymes (how many amino acids are they made from)
They are relatively large molecules as they are made from 100’s of amino acids.
Where do intracellular enzymes work?
Inside the cell
Where do extra cellular enzymes work?
Outside the cell - possibly outside of the whole organism
Give an example if an intracellular enzyme and state its function
Catalase - breaks down hydrogen peroxide inside cells
Give an example of an extra cellular enzyme and state its function
Trypsin - breaks down protein into smaller polypeptides in the small intestine
What is the active site?
The part of the enzyme where the substrate binds
How many amino acids form the active site?
A very small number; often fewer than 10
What is formed between the enzyme and the substrate?
Weak temporary bonds such as hydrogen bonds or attraction of opposite charges
How many substrates can an enzyme act as a catalyst for? Why.
Only one - this is because the 3D shape of the active site will only be the complementary shape for one type of substrate to bind to
When is a substrate complex formed?
When an enzyme binds to the substrate
What makes the enzyme release the product?
The product is not as complementary to the enzymes shape as the substrates are
What do enzymes act as?
A catalyst
What does a catalyst do?
- speed up chemical reactions in living organisms at low temperatures and neutral pH’s
- they remain unchanged and are not used up
