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Multiple Choice
Which of the following mechanisms does NOT regulate the activity of an enzyme?
A
Denaturation by extreme heat
B
Covalent modification
C
Allosteric modulation
D
Competitive inhibition
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the question: The problem is asking which mechanism does NOT regulate enzyme activity. To solve this, we need to analyze each option and determine whether it is a regulatory mechanism or not.
Step 1: Recall the concept of enzyme regulation. Enzymes are regulated through mechanisms such as covalent modification (e.g., phosphorylation), allosteric modulation (binding of molecules at sites other than the active site), and competitive inhibition (binding of inhibitors at the active site). These mechanisms alter enzyme activity in a controlled manner.
Step 2: Analyze 'Denaturation by extreme heat.' Denaturation refers to the irreversible loss of enzyme structure and function due to factors like extreme heat. This is not a regulatory mechanism because it permanently damages the enzyme rather than modulating its activity.
Step 3: Analyze 'Covalent modification.' Covalent modification involves chemical changes to the enzyme, such as phosphorylation or acetylation, which can activate or deactivate the enzyme. This is a regulatory mechanism.
Step 4: Analyze 'Allosteric modulation.' Allosteric modulation occurs when molecules bind to sites other than the active site, causing conformational changes that regulate enzyme activity. This is a regulatory mechanism.
Step 5: Analyze 'Competitive inhibition.' Competitive inhibition occurs when a molecule competes with the substrate for binding at the active site, temporarily reducing enzyme activity. This is a regulatory mechanism.