Chapter 8.5.1 (Exam 2) Enzyme Regulation Flashcards
Enzyme Activities Can Be Regulated
What are the two ways that enzyme activity can be controlled?
Regulation of gene expression—how many enzyme molecules are made
Regulation of enzyme activity—enzyme may change shape, or be blocked by regulators
How are chemicals reactions in cells organized?
Chemical reactions in cells are organized in metabolic pathways that are interconnected
The products of one reaction are the reactants of another
What gave rise to the new field called systems biology?
The complex pathways are modeled using computer algorithms
What is the function of enzymes in metabolic pathways?
Enzymes help organize and regulate metabolic pathways
What are enzyme inhibitors?
Molecules that bind to the enzyme and slow reaction rates
What are two categories enzyme inhibitors can fall under?
Naturally occurring- regulate metabolism
Artificial - treat disease, kill pests, or study how enzymes work
What are the two types of actions enzyme inhibitors can take?
Irreversible (permanent inactivation)
Reversible (temporary inactivation)
What is irreversible inhibition?
Inhibitor covalently bonds to side chains in the active site and permanently inactivates the enzyme
What is one example of irreversible inhibition?
Aspirin transfers an acetyl group which covalently bonds with an enzyme called cyclooxygenase, preventing arachidonic acid from becoming prostaglandins which cause pain and inflammation
What is reversible inhibition?
Inhibitor bonds noncovalently to the active site and prevents substrate from binding
