Notes from NEET topper
Factors Affecting Enzyme Activity:
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Temperature: Enzymes have an optimal temperature at which they work most efficiently. Above this temperature, they may denature and lose activity.
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pH: Enzymes have an optimal pH range. Variations in pH can affect the enzyme’s structure and, consequently, its activity.
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Substrate Concentration: As substrate concentration increases, enzyme activity generally increases until a point of saturation is reached when all enzyme active sites are occupied.
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Cofactors and Coenzymes: Some enzymes require non-protein molecules called cofactors or coenzymes to function. These can be metal ions or small organic molecules.
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Inhibitors: Enzyme activity can be inhibited by substances known as inhibitors. Competitive inhibitors compete with the substrate for binding to the enzyme’s active site, while non-competitive inhibitors bind to a different site, altering the enzyme’s shape.
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Activators: Certain molecules, called activators, can enhance enzyme activity. They may bind to the enzyme and stabilize its active conformation.
