Question

Please answer this question ASAP an explain in detail. I really need it before the night is over.

a) Explain what a catalytic process is and how it is different from the non-catalytic version of the process. Give an example of an enzymatic process other than amylase and describe the substrate(s)/product(s):

b) Describe what the enzyme amylase does and what would happen in the absence of this enzyme:

Answer 1

a. Enzymes are biocatalysts that accelerate the rate of reactions. They do not affect the state of equilibrium. They reduce the activation energy required for substrates to enter the reaction. Many non-spontaneous reactions are driven by ATP hydrolysis in the presence of an enzyme. In the absence of an enzyme, the reaction may take several years to complete.

Ex: Hydrolysis of peptide bond by proteases

A peptide bond is formed between the alpha amino group of an amino acid and the alpha carboxyl group of another amino acid. It is a rigid, planar covalent bond. It is a highly stable bond that requires 1000 yrs to undergo spontaneous hydrolysis. On the other hand, proteases readily cleave a peptide bond.

b. Amylase is a hydrolytic enzyme involved in the digestion process. It catalyzes the conversion of starch to sugars. It is present in the saliva of humans and other animals.

The reaction catalyzed by amylase is

Starch ---------> Disaccharides + Trisaccharides

All amylases cleave ?-1,4-glycosidic bonds.

In the absence of amylase, starch can not be broken down into sugars. So, digestion of starch does not occur.