Enzymes Are Proteins

Cells cannot function without this protein and there are pivotal to the functioning of the human body. They are known to known to catalyze around four thousand reactions.

The functioning of an enzyme can be altered by other molecules. Inhibitors can be used to decrease protein activity, while activators are known to the opposite. Several other factors such as temperature, pH content and substrate concentration also affect its functioning. Some external chemicals can also alter protein function.

Its name was first coined by German physiologist Wilhelm Kunhe in 1877. Its etymological roots lie in the Greek word ‘énzymon’, meaning ‘in leaven’. It was Edward Buchner who first named an enzyme after its function, and since then the nomenclature for enzymes has been the same.

This is a globular enzyme that is three dimensional. It comprises of linear chains of amino acids that fold at different intervals. An enzyme can be de-structured and rendered inactive by heating or by adding chemical denaturants.

This is usually reaction specific, and is known to perform a wide number of functions inside an organism. It is essential for cell regulation and also for signal transduction. Furthermore, they are required to generate muscle contraction and to transfer load around the cell. Interestingly, it is an enzyme called luciferase that generates light in fireflies.

Some viruses also known to contain certain enzymes, such as the influenza virus. The digestive system of some animals functions due to the presence of some enzymes. The presence of Amylases and Proteases help break down starch and protein molecules, aiding digestion. The intestine is incapable of digesting these molecules in their original form.

In herbivores, Cellulose is used to lyse the cell walls of plant fiber. A malfunctioning enzyme can cause genetic defects or genetic diseases. So, it is essential that every enzyme in the body functions optimally to ensure bodily health. It is astounding how a single molecule can have such a crucial role to play in the functioning of an organism.

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