Enzymic proteins are functional molecular engines of life and as such carry out cellular reactions in cells. Enzymes convert a target molecule (substrate) into a different molecule (product). Enzymes have a number of distinct advantages over conventional chemical catalysts. The most distinctive feature of enzyme-based catalysis is its specificity and requires lock-key matching specificity before the reaction can proceed. This lock-key specificity of enzyme reactions allows the chosen reaction to be catalyzed in complex cellular environments to the exclusion of side-reactions eliminating undesirable by-products. Because of this lock-key matching specificity, agents or conditions that either compete or alter the lock-key match influence the enzyme reaction. In addition to the high specificity, the enzyme reactions require less energy than conventional chemical reactions and follow saturation kinetics.
This lab activity involves analysis of an enzyme reaction using a specific enzyme substrate and inhibitor. Students study how the rate of enzyme reaction is dependent on substrate concentration and the influence of agents (inhibitors) and conditions that affects the enzyme reaction such as pH and temperature.
Supplied with components needed for hands-on experimentation for six workstations of 4-5 students or 24-30 students. Supplied with Teacher’s Guide and separate Student’s Guides.
Applications
This kit allows the following study:
- Enzyme kinetic and regulation of enzyme activity.
- Role of substrate concentration.
- Effects of pH and temperature on the reaction rate.
- Inhibition of enzyme reaction.
