Key Knowledge 3 Flashcards
How can temperature affect an enzyme?
When it gets too hot, an enzyme can denature and stop functioning. When it gets too cold, enzymes experience little to no activity and can freeze. However, unlike with denaturation at high temperatures, enzymes can regain functionality when reheated as
significant denaturation does not occur at low temperatures.
optimum temperature for enzymes in humans
optimal temperature range of 36–38 °C
how can pH affect an enzyme?
When the pH becomes too acidic or basic for an enzyme, it can denature.
substrate concentration
If the enzyme concentration remains constant while the substrate concentration increases, then the reaction rate will increase. This is because there are more reactants available to undergo the reaction
saturation point
the point at which a substance (e.g. an enzyme) cannot receive more of another substance (e.g. a substrate)
limiting factor
a factor that prevents the rate of reaction from increasing
enzyme concentration
If the enzyme concentration is high, then the reaction rate will be high. This is due to the large number of active sites available for the substrate to bind to.
enzyme inhibitor
a molecule that binds to and prevents an enzyme from functioning
competitive inhibition
the hindrance of an enzyme by blocking the active site and
preventing the substrate from binding
non-competitive inhibition
the hindrance of an enzyme by binding to an allosteric site and changing the shape of the active site to prevent the substrate from binding
allosteric site
a region on an enzyme that is not the active site
cofactor
any organic or inorganic molecule, such as a coenzyme or metal ion, that assists enzyme function
coenzyme
a non-protein organic cofactor that assists enzyme function. They release energy and are recycled during a reaction
ATP
adenosine triphosphate, a high energy molecule that, when
broken down, provides energy for cellular processes
ADP
adenosine diphosphate, the unloaded form of ATP
