Enzymes
Regulate cell chemisty
Enzymes
• Enzymes- are biological catalysts,
or chemicals that accelerate a
chemical reaction without itself being
affected by the reaction.
Enzymes
• Groups of enzymes
work together to carry
out a given metabolic
function.
• This process must be
regulated in order to
allow the cell to meet
its changing needs for
energy.
Enzymes
• Enzymes - are vital to such bodily
functions as digestion
Large Insoluble
Molecule
Type of
Enzyme
Small Soluble
Product
Carbohydrate
(e.g. Starch)
Carbohydrase
Simple Sugars
(e.g. glucose)
Protein
Protease (e.g.
pepsin)
Amino Acids
Fat/Lipids
Lipase
Glycerol and
Fatty Acids
Enzymes
• 1.Enzyme – usually end in ase
• Amylase -enzyme that catalyses the
breakdown of starch into sugars
(saliva)
• Lactase – enzyme that breaks down
sugar to produce energy
• Enzymes often associate with other
molecules to get the job done
done…..
Enzymes
2. Cofactor
Aid in the action of the enzyme
• Non-protein
• link to enzymes / presence is
essential to the activity of those
enzymes
Enzymes
• Cofactors work by changing the shape
of an enzyme
• Specificity
Enzymes
• 3. Substrate
In an enzymatic reaction, the reactant
that the enzyme acts upon is:
– Substrate
Lactase
Lactose
Galactose
Glucose
Enzymes
• A number of variables
effect enzyme
activity:
• Temperature
• pH
Enzymes
Heat-sensitive enzyme Controls Melanin
• Less enzyme activity in
warmer areas (lighter)
• More enzyme activity in
cooler areas(darker)
•
The enzyme the determines
melanin optimal temp is below 103