the reactants that go into the enzyme promoted chemical reaction are also called __________.

Malaps

less than a minute read

·

12-10-2024

94

0

Share

Understanding the Players in Enzyme-Catalyzed Reactions: Reactants, Substrates, and Products

Enzymes are biological catalysts that accelerate chemical reactions within living organisms. To understand how these reactions occur, it's essential to grasp the terminology used to describe the molecules involved.

The answer to the question "The reactants that go into the enzyme-promoted chemical reaction are also called __________" is "substrates".

Reactants vs. Substrates: What's the Difference?

While both terms refer to the molecules that participate in a chemical reaction, there's a subtle distinction between "reactants" and "substrates":

• Reactants: This general term applies to any molecule that undergoes a chemical transformation, regardless of whether an enzyme is involved.
• Substrates: This term specifically refers to the reactants that bind to an enzyme and are directly acted upon by it.

Why Use the Term "Substrate"?

Using the term "substrate" highlights the unique relationship between an enzyme and its specific reactant. Enzymes have active sites, specifically shaped pockets that bind to their substrates with high specificity. This lock-and-key mechanism ensures that enzymes catalyze only the desired reactions, maintaining the delicate balance of biochemical processes within cells.

Example: The Breakdown of Lactose

Consider the enzyme lactase, which breaks down the sugar lactose into glucose and galactose.

• Reactant: Lactose (a disaccharide)
• Substrate: Lactose (since it binds to lactase)
• Enzyme: Lactase
• Products: Glucose and galactose (the breakdown products of lactose)

In essence, the term "substrate" emphasizes the highly specific interaction between an enzyme and its reactant, highlighting the crucial role enzymes play in facilitating biochemical reactions.

Further Reading:

• "Enzymes" by Dr. A.S. Prakash (Academia.edu) - Provides a comprehensive overview of enzymes and their functions.
• "Enzyme Kinetics and Mechanism" by Prof. R.A. Copeland (Academia.edu) - Explores the detailed mechanisms of enzyme-catalyzed reactions.

In conclusion, the term "substrate" provides a more nuanced understanding of the reactants involved in enzyme-catalyzed reactions, emphasizing the specificity and efficiency of these essential biological catalysts.