Answer to Question #198715 in Biochemistry for Hippo

Question

Identify and describe two ways that you can reduce the effectiveness of an enzyme

Answer 1

Altering the PH

Each enzyme has a pH range where it works best. Enzyme activity will be slowed if the pH is changed outside of this range. Enzymes can denature if the pH is too high. The three-dimensional structure will not develop correctly until the pH is adjusted. In biological systems, biochemical buffers can keep the enzyme within its optimum pH range.

Effect on temperature

The three-dimensional structure of enzymes is also affected by temperature. Each enzyme has a certain temperature range in which it acts well. A temperature that is too high will denature the enzyme's structure, altering the shape of its active site and preventing it from catalyzing a process properly.