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Multiple Choice
During each step of a metabolic pathway, a separate ______ is needed to catalyze the reaction.
A
enzyme
B
coenzyme
C
inhibitor
D
substrate
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the context of the problem. The question is asking about the role of a specific molecule in catalyzing reactions within a metabolic pathway. Metabolic pathways are sequences of chemical reactions occurring within a cell, and each step is facilitated by a specific molecule.
Step 2: Recall the definition of an enzyme. Enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up chemical reactions by lowering the activation energy required for the reaction to occur. They are highly specific to the reactions they catalyze.
Step 3: Consider the role of coenzymes. Coenzymes are organic molecules that assist enzymes in catalyzing reactions, often by transferring chemical groups or electrons. However, they are not the primary catalysts; they work in conjunction with enzymes.
Step 4: Evaluate the role of inhibitors. Inhibitors are molecules that decrease the activity of enzymes, either by binding to the active site or altering the enzyme's structure. They do not catalyze reactions but rather prevent or slow them.
Step 5: Analyze the role of substrates. Substrates are the reactants in enzyme-catalyzed reactions. They bind to the enzyme's active site but are not responsible for catalysis themselves. Therefore, the correct answer is 'enzyme,' as it is the molecule required to catalyze each step of a metabolic pathway.