A-Level Biology Enzymes Revision Notes

• 1Enzymes are proteins that act as catalysts in biochemical reactions.
• 2The active site of an enzyme is specifically shaped to bind to its substrate.
• 3Enzyme activity can be affected by temperature, pH, and substrate concentration.
• 4Enzymes can be inhibited by competitive and non-competitive inhibitors.
• 5The lock and key model and the induced fit model explain enzyme-substrate interactions.

Enzymes are special proteins that help speed up chemical reactions in our bodies. They work by binding to specific molecules called substrates at their active sites, making it easier for reactions to occur. Factors like temperature and pH can change how well enzymes work, and sometimes other molecules can block their action.