Answered: Explain how enzymes work.

Human Anatomy & Physiology (11th Edition)

11th Edition

ISBN:9780134580999

Author:Elaine N. Marieb, Katja N. Hoehn

Publisher:Elaine N. Marieb, Katja N. Hoehn

Chapter1: The Human Body: An Orientation

Section: Chapter Questions

Problem 1RQ: The correct sequence of levels forming the structural hierarchy is A. (a) organ, organ system,...

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Question

Explain how enzymes work.

Expert Solution

Introduction

A catalyst is a substance that increases the rate of a chemical reaction without taking part in the reaction. Enzymes are the catalysts for various biochemical reactions occurring in living organisms. Most enzymes are proteins, while in some cases RNAs are also used as enzymes.

The absence of enzymes may hinder various chemical reactions causing different disease conditions. For example, phenylketonuria is a condition in which the individual is not able to metabolize the amino acid phenylalanine. This is because the enzyme that hydrolyses phenylalanine, called phenylalanine hydroxylase, is not available in its active form in the body.