Table of contents

1. Introduction to Biochemistry4h 34m
2. Water3h 23m
3. Amino Acids8h 10m
4. Protein Structure10h 4m
5. Protein Techniques14h 5m
6. Enzymes and Enzyme Kinetics13h 38m
7. Enzyme Inhibition and Regulation 8h 42m
8. Protein Function 9h 41m
9. Carbohydrates7h 49m
10. Lipids5h 49m
11. Biological Membranes and Transport 6h 37m
12. Biosignaling9h 45m
Review 1: Nucleic Acids, Lipids, & Membranes2h 47m
Review 2: Biosignaling, Glycolysis, Gluconeogenesis, & PP-Pathway3h 12m
Review 3: Pyruvate & Fatty Acid Oxidation, Citric Acid Cycle, & Glycogen Metabolism2h 26m
Review 4: Amino Acid Oxidation, Oxidative Phosphorylation, & Photophosphorylation1h 48m

6. Enzymes and Enzyme Kinetics

Enzyme-Substrate Complex

Biochemistry

6. Enzymes and Enzyme Kinetics

Enzyme-Substrate Complex

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Multiple Choice

What is the primary reason for the specificity of an enzyme toward its substrate?

The presence of metal ions as cofactors

The overall size of the enzyme molecule

The concentration of substrate in the cell

The unique three-dimensional structure of the enzyme's active site

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Verified step by step guidance

Understand the concept of enzyme specificity: Enzyme specificity refers to the ability of an enzyme to selectively bind to a particular substrate and catalyze its reaction. This specificity is crucial for the enzyme's function in biochemical processes.

Recognize the role of the active site: The active site of an enzyme is a specific region where the substrate binds. It is shaped in a way that complements the substrate's structure, allowing for precise interaction.

Learn about the three-dimensional structure: The unique three-dimensional structure of the enzyme's active site is determined by the folding of the enzyme's polypeptide chain. This structure creates a specific shape and chemical environment that matches the substrate.

Understand why other factors are less relevant: While metal ions as cofactors, enzyme size, and substrate concentration can influence enzyme activity, they do not directly determine the enzyme's specificity. Specificity is primarily governed by the active site's structure.

Conclude that the correct answer is based on the active site's unique structure: The enzyme's specificity is due to the precise fit between the substrate and the active site, often described as a 'lock and key' or 'induced fit' model.