They're globular proteins with a 3D structure. Imagine them like tiny round-shaped molecular workers!
Their job? Being catalysts. That means they speed up reactions without getting used up. Like how a soccer coach (enzyme) helps the team (reaction) perform better without actually playing the game.
The magic spot - active site 🎯
Picture an enzyme as a puzzle piece with a special groove or shape called the active site.
It's not just any groove! Only the right partner, known as the substrate, fits in. It's like finding the perfect dance partner amidst a crowded room. 🕺💃
When they're dancing together (substrate binding), the enzyme works its magic and turns the substrate into something else – the product. Once the dance is over (reaction is done), they part ways.
A closer look at the active site 🤔
Size Matters: Active sites aren't one-size-fits-all. They vary in size to match the substrate they're working with.
The Special Few: Only a few amino acids in the enzyme are key players in this action. They create the right conditions for the substrate to transform.
Teamwork Makes the Dream Work: The amino acids that make up the active site aren't usually neighbors. Imagine a group of friends from different parts of a town coming together for a party. They get close because of how the enzyme folds, forming that special groove!
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Biology HL
Theme C - Interaction & Interdependence
Unraveling Enzymes Globular Proteins With Unique Catalytic Sites
They're globular proteins with a 3D structure. Imagine them like tiny round-shaped molecular workers!
Their job? Being catalysts. That means they speed up reactions without getting used up. Like how a soccer coach (enzyme) helps the team (reaction) perform better without actually playing the game.
The magic spot - active site 🎯
Picture an enzyme as a puzzle piece with a special groove or shape called the active site.
It's not just any groove! Only the right partner, known as the substrate, fits in. It's like finding the perfect dance partner amidst a crowded room. 🕺💃
When they're dancing together (substrate binding), the enzyme works its magic and turns the substrate into something else – the product. Once the dance is over (reaction is done), they part ways.
A closer look at the active site 🤔
Size Matters: Active sites aren't one-size-fits-all. They vary in size to match the substrate they're working with.
The Special Few: Only a few amino acids in the enzyme are key players in this action. They create the right conditions for the substrate to transform.
Teamwork Makes the Dream Work: The amino acids that make up the active site aren't usually neighbors. Imagine a group of friends from different parts of a town coming together for a party. They get close because of how the enzyme folds, forming that special groove!
Unlock the Full Content!
Dive deeper and gain exclusive access to premium files of Biology HL. Subscribe now and get closer to that 45 🌟