Enzyme-Substrate Recognition

Definition

This refers to how an enzyme recognizes its specific substrate (the molecule upon which an enzyme acts).

Analogy

Consider this process similar to finding your perfect match on a dating app! Just as each person has unique characteristics they look for in their ideal partner, enzymes have specific shapes and properties they recognize in their substrates.

Related terms

Active Site: The part of an enzyme where substrate molecules bind and undergo a chemical reaction. It’s like the profile page on your dating app – it’s where all interaction happens!

Lock-and-Key Model: A model suggesting that enzymes and substrates fit together perfectly due to their complementary shapes, just like puzzle pieces or keys fitting into locks.

Induced Fit Model: An updated model suggesting that enzymes change shape slightly when they bind with their substrates, much like hugging someone tightly.