Enzyme

Definition

Enzymes are proteins that act as biological catalysts, speeding up chemical reactions in the body without being consumed or altered in the process. They play a crucial role in various bodily functions, including digestion and metabolism.

Related terms

Substrate: The specific reactant that an enzyme acts upon is known as its substrate.

Active Site: The region on an enzyme where the substrate binds and undergoes a chemical reaction.

Activation Energy:

The minimum amount of energy required to start a chemical reaction, which enzymes work to lower, therefore speeding up reactions