BiologyBiochemistry9 minBeginner
Enzyme Catalysis and Active Site
Connect enzyme shape, substrate binding, catalytic residues, and product release in one visual map.
1
Enzyme protein surface
Folded protein shape that positions the active site.
Enzymes speed reactions by positioning substrates and stabilizing reaction states. The active site is where shape, charge, and catalytic residues come together to make the reaction easier.
After products form, they leave the active site. The enzyme can then bind another substrate without being consumed.
Key Idea
Enzyme function depends on local structure. A small active-site change can alter binding, speed, or specificity.