Problem 125 - Objective Biology for NEET

Question

The suffix '-' added to substrate for naming the enzyme is (a) -ase (b) -in (c) - zyme (d) -ose

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The correct answer is '-ase'. This is the suffix added to a substrate for naming enzymes.

Step 1: Identify the context

These names often end with a specific suffix that is universally recognized and understood by scientists. The question involves this specific suffix. The options are '-ase', '-in', '-zyme', '-ose'.

Step 2: Evaluate the options

-'in' and '-ose' mostly refer to proteins and sugars, respectively. '-zyme' does relate to enzymes, but it's not the suffix used when naming them based on their substrate. The suffix '-ase' is added to the name of the substrate or the reaction that the enzyme catalyzes. For example, lactase is the enzyme that breaks down the substrate lactose. Therefore the correct answer is '-ase'.

Key Concepts

Enzyme

Enzymes are vital biomolecules that act as catalysts in numerous biological processes.
They are primarily composed of proteins, although certain RNA molecules can also function as enzymes, known as ribozymes. Enzymes have the unique ability to speed up chemical reactions without being consumed in the process.
This means they can repeatedly assist in reactions, making them incredibly efficient. Enzyme names often end with the suffix '-ase', derived from their substrate or type of reaction they catalyze.
For example, lipase breaks down lipids, and protease breaks down proteins. This nomenclature helps in easily identifying the function of an enzyme based on its name.

Substrate

In biochemistry, a substrate is the molecule upon which an enzyme acts.
It fits into a specific region of the enzyme known as the active site, much like a key fits into its lock.
This interaction allows the enzyme to facilitate the conversion of the substrate into a product. The relationship between an enzyme and its substrate is high-specificity. The shape and chemical environment of the active site are precisely aligned for the substrate to bind effectively. This specificity is crucial for the enzyme's function as it ensures that enzymes catalyze the correct reaction, contributing to the regulation of biochemical pathways in living organisms.

Biochemistry

Biochemistry is the branch of science concerned with the chemical and physical processes that occur within living organisms.
It encompasses the study of enzymes, substrates, and all the organic compounds essential for life.
The field combines principles from both biology and chemistry to explore the molecular mechanisms that underpin cellular processes. In relation to enzymes and substrates, biochemistry examines how these molecules interact to facilitate life-sustaining reactions.

• Without enzymes, most biochemical reactions would occur too slowly to sustain life.
• Through the study of biochemistry, scientists can understand disease mechanisms and develop medical interventions.

It is a fundamental field for advancing medicine, agriculture, and biotechnology.

Catalysis

Catalysis refers to the acceleration of a chemical reaction by a catalyst. In the context of biochemistry, enzymes serve as natural catalysts.
They lower the activation energy required for a reaction to occur, which makes it easier and faster to convert substrates into products.

How Catalysis Works

Enzymes bind to substrates at their active sites forming an enzyme-substrate complex. This close interaction helps in rearranging chemical bonds within the substrate, facilitating the transformation into the final product.
Once the reaction is complete, the product is released and the enzyme is free to bind with another substrate molecule, continuing the catalytic cycle. Understanding catalysis is essential for developing drugs and industrial processes that rely on enzyme activity.