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Multiple Choice
An allosteric (non-competitive) inhibitor does which of the following?
A
Increases the affinity of the enzyme for its substrate, lowering the $K_m$.
B
Binds to a site other than the active site and decreases the maximum velocity ($V_{max}$) of the enzyme-catalyzed reaction.
C
Binds irreversibly to the enzyme, permanently inactivating it.
D
Competes with the substrate for binding at the active site, increasing the apparent $K_m$.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by understanding the concept of allosteric inhibition. Allosteric inhibitors bind to a site on the enzyme that is distinct from the active site, which is why they are referred to as non-competitive inhibitors. This binding alters the enzyme's conformation and affects its activity.
Step 2: Recall the effect of allosteric inhibitors on enzyme kinetics. Unlike competitive inhibitors, allosteric inhibitors do not compete with the substrate for the active site. Instead, they decrease the enzyme's maximum velocity ($V_{max}$) without affecting the substrate's binding affinity ($K_m$).
Step 3: Analyze the options provided in the problem. The first option mentions increasing the enzyme's affinity for its substrate and lowering $K_m$, which is incorrect for allosteric inhibitors. The second option correctly describes the mechanism of allosteric inhibition: binding to a site other than the active site and decreasing $V_{max}$.
Step 4: Evaluate the third option, which states that the inhibitor binds irreversibly to the enzyme, permanently inactivating it. While irreversible inhibitors exist, they are not classified as allosteric inhibitors. This option is incorrect in the context of the problem.
Step 5: Consider the fourth option, which describes competitive inhibition. Competitive inhibitors compete with the substrate for the active site, increasing the apparent $K_m$. This is not the mechanism of allosteric inhibitors, making this option incorrect.